Paul “John” Coleman, 80, of Festus died Feb. 21, 2025, at Mercy Hospital Jefferson in Crystal City. Mr. Coleman was an Army veteran of the Vietnam Era. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Herculaneum-Pevely, Amvets Post 171 and Elks Lodge 1721. He spent nearly 50 years working in a variety of roles within the meat industry, retiring in 2007 from the former Smithfield Beef Group as vice president of export sales and marketing. In addition to his passion for the meat business, he loved cars. He frequented local car shows while showing off his own prized possessions. He enjoyed attending monthly dinners and meetings with the Herculaneum High School Alumni Group and the Show Me Antique Car Club. He also enjoyed his Tuesday lunches with long-time friends, sharing stories and memories. He loved talking about and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Born Dec. 5, 1944, in St. Louis, he was the son of the late Rozina Elvina (Gegg) and Paul Fabian Coleman.
He is survived by his wife: Sandra (Ohl) Coleman; two sons: Bryon (Melissa) Coleman of Madison, Wis., and Christopher (Joseph Prochaska) Coleman of Atlanta, Ga.; three grandchildren: Kylie (Cody) Reed, Grayson Coleman and Evelyn Coleman; and a brother: Thomas J. Coleman of Florida.
He was preceded in death by his first wife: Diane Marie (Swyers) Coleman; and a brother: James F. Coleman who died in the Vietnam War.
A memorial gathering is scheduled from 11 a.m. until memorial services at 1 p.m., Saturday, March 15, at Vinyard Funeral Home, 616 W. Main St., in Festus, officiated by Pastor Jeff Purvis. Burial with full military honors will follow in Assumption Cemetery in Herculaneum. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home.