Penny Denise Shelton Coleman

Penny Coleman, a devoted educator and cherished matriarch, departed this life on December 28, 2025, in Montgomery, Alabama, at the age of 56. Born on October 12, 1969, Penny's journey was one marked by dedication, compassion, and a profound love for her family and community.

Penny made her mark as a substitute teacher, impacting the lives of countless students across many surrounding schools. Her steadfast commitment to education underscored her belief in the transformative power of knowledge. She approached her role with warmth and enthusiasm, touching the hearts of those she encountered, thereby leaving behind an enduring legacy of kindness and inspiration.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Penny's love for her family was the cornerstone of her life. She shared 29 beautiful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Jerry M. Coleman. Their union was a testament to unwavering support and devotion, creating a nurturing environment for their children. Penny is lovingly remembered by her three daughters, Candie Harris (Eddie Levett), Kayla Hayden (AJ), and Jodi Milwood, and her son, Joseph Milwood (April). Each of her children carried a fragment of her spirit, showcasing her dedication to their individual journeys.

A proud grandmother, Penny delighted in the joys of family. Her grandchildren—Michael Harris, Ariana Smith, Demitri Harris, Joseph Milwood III, Oliver Milwood, Benji Milwood, Shawn Hayden, and Jace Hayden—were often at the center of her world. Whether engaging in playful adventures or imparting wisdom during quiet moments, she established a profound bond with each of them, instilling values of love and resilience.

Penny's passions extended beyond her family. She had a remarkable talent in the kitchen, where she found solace and joy in cooking. The meals she shared were not merely sustenance; they were expressions of love that brought family and friends together in celebration. Furthermore, her fervent advocacy for domestic violence awareness showed her dedication to uplifting others and striving for a better world.

In her lifetime, Penny cultivated deep connections, and her spirit continues to illuminate the lives she touched. She is survived by her sister, Yvonda Baker, along with several nieces and nephews who carry forth her values of kindness and generosity.

Penny is preceded in death by her mother and father-in-law, Martha and Buford Coleman, and brother-in-law, Chuck Baker, who welcomed her into the family with open arms and warm hearts.

The community is invited to gather in celebration of Penny’s life on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at Jeffcoat Funeral Home in Tallassee, Alabama. Visitation will commence at 10:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM. Penny will be laid to rest following the service, with burial at Salem Macon Baptist Church Cemetery in Notasulga, Alabama.

As we honor the memory of Penny Coleman, let us reflect upon her indelible impact on the world around her—a legacy of love, laughter, and resolute strength that will resonate for generations to come.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Family Sunshine Center, 858 South Court Street, Montgomery, Alabama 36104

A beautiful tribute written by her son Joseph :

Today we gather to honor and remember my mother, Penny Coleman—a woman who was deeply loved, fiercely devoted, and truly one of a kind. While our hearts are heavy with grief, they are also full of gratitude for having been blessed with her love.

My mom was known for being sweet, loving, and caring. Those weren’t just words that described her—they were actions she lived by every single day. She would do anything she could for a friend, a family member, or even a complete stranger. If you needed help and she had a way to give it, she did—without hesitation and without expecting anything in return.

She was selfless in every sense of the word. Everything my mother did was intentional, always aimed at improving the lives of the people she loved. And make no mistake—she didn’t play about her family. As long as you didn’t cross us, you were good. But if you did, you learned real quick just how strong and protective she was. Her love was gentle, but her loyalty was unshakable.

One of my mom’s greatest gifts was her ability to make you laugh—effortlessly. She didn’t even have to try. Whether it was something she said or something she did, she kept you on your toes. Sometimes you just couldn’t believe that a woman who looked so sweet could say something so silly—but she always did it in the best way. Her humor was unexpected, natural, and contagious, and it brought light into so many moments when we needed it most.

One of the ways my mom showed love best was through food. She loved cooking and baking, and she fed people the same way she loved them—fully and wholeheartedly. Her cornbread and macaroni and cheese are legendary in our family, and they’ll be missed for years to come. Those dishes weren’t just meals; they were comfort, tradition, and home.

At her core, my mother’s greatest passions were being a wife, a mother, a grandmother, and a friend. In her later years especially, her heart belonged to her grandbabies. I’ll never forget her telling me—her youngest and only son—that she loved me, but no one would ever come before Nana’s baby boys. That’s what she called her seven grandsons. And of course, there was her Lady Bug—her one and only granddaughter—who held a very special place in her heart.

Mom lived for those kids. She loved them loudly, proudly, and unconditionally. Being their Nana brought her a joy that was impossible to miss.

My mother was born on October 12, 1969, and she passed away on December 28th, surrounded by the warmth and love of her family. Her life was not an easy one. She endured a horrific childhood and an adulthood marked by pain and illness. But despite all of it, she was a fighter. She fought hard every single day, and she fought bravely to the very end.

I truly believe there is not a single person here today who is stronger or tougher than my mother was. And I promise you that. Her strength didn’t always roar—it showed up quietly in her endurance, her kindness, and her refusal to let bitterness win.

If we can take anything from her life, let it be this: love deeply, give freely, protect your people, laugh often, and keep fighting—even when it hurts. That’s how my mother lived. And that is how she should be remembered.

Penny, Mom, Nana…—you are deeply loved, endlessly missed, and forever carried in our hearts. We love you and are happy there will be no more suffering for you, Sleep well.