Clarence Richard 'Dick' Coleman

Clarence Richard 'Dick' Coleman, 80, of Dalton, Georgia was called home to Heaven on Friday, March 6, 2026 at Hamilton Medical Center. 

Dick leaves behind a legacy of firm faith in his Lord and Savior, loving devotion to his family and friends, and proud commitment to his community. He and his beloved wife, Elaine, moved to Dalton in 1968 where he helped build a nationally recognized basketball program at then Dalton Junior College. “Coach C” helped lead the Roadrunners to national championship contending seasons and he has remained close to his Roadrunner family. Known by many as “Poppy C” later in his life, Dick was well-loved and well-known throughout the Dalton community.

He was born on December 19,1945 in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he grew up working on his family’s dairy farm and loving all things sports.

He is preceded in death by his parents Leslie and Christine Coleman; his sister, Martha; brother-in-law Terry Heath; and sister-in-law Jane Coleman.

Dick is survived by his soulmate, his loving wife of 58 years Elaine Parsley Coleman; children Dr. Sean (Kathryn) Coleman and Renee Coleman Golden; grandchildren Sarah Kate (Harrison) McDermott, Caroline (James) Boone, Lily Claire Golden, Meg Coleman, Conrad Coleman, and Carter Golden; brothers Brandt Coleman and Johnny (Donna) Coleman; and beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Dick’s heart for the Lord was evident to anyone he met. He loved sharing about God’s faithfulness and provision. He was a faithful member of The River Community Church where he encouraged his church family through his story of the power of God’s healing. He never missed an opportunity to witness to others and give all glory to his Heavenly Father. Dick was the very definition of a Godly man, husband, father, and grandfather. He was a blessing to those he encountered and he loved so many. Dick had the ability to make everyone feel seen, heard, and loved. Poppy C was most happy when he was with his family. Whether he was cheering from the stands for his grandchildren and their teammates, or enjoying every single step of the Nutcracker and dance recitals, Poppy C was there, beaming with pride. He never missed the opportunity to support his wife, his children, and his grandchildren. Dick leaves behind a legacy of kindness, faithfulness, gentleness, and unconditional love. -Psalm 23-

The family will receive friends on Saturday, March 21st from 1:00 P.M. - 3:00 P.M. at the River Community Church with a service of worship celebrating his life to follow at 3:00 P.M. with the Reverend Doctor Brian Clark officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Dick Coleman to the River Community Church Building Fund (click link below to donate; under 'Fund,' select 'Memorial - Dick Coleman.' All donations received through this portal will be used toward the Church's building campaign).

Condolences and messages of sympathy may be expressed for Dick's family through Love Funeral Home's online guestbook.

The River Community Church - Dick Coleman Memorial Donations