Wayne Eugene Coleman

Wayne Eugene Coleman, beloved son of the late Willie Eugene Coleman and Alice Faye Holmes Franks, was born on November 21, 1963, and ascended to his heavenly home on December 5, 2024, at the age of 61, with his devoted wife by his side. Wayne's early life was enriched by his acceptance of Christ at Saint John African Methodist Episcopal Church in Pine Bluff, AR, where he was an active participant in the Youth Choir, YPD, Sunday School, and the Boy Scouts of America. He also contributed to the NAACP Youth Council, embodying a spirit of service and community involvement from a young age.

Wayne graduated from Pine Bluff High School, Class of 1983, where his talents shone in numerous talent shows, the Pine Bluff High School Band, ShockWave, and the Air Force Jr. ROTC. His musical prowess was recognized as he was voted 'Most Talented' for two consecutive years. 

After serving honorably in the United States Army as a Medical Specialist from 1983 to 1985. Wayne pursued further education at Eastern College of Health Vocations becoming a certified Phlebotomist and dedicating his skills to the medical field at various institutions, including the Plasma Center, UAMS, and Arkansas Primary Care under Dr. Derek Lewis, where he was over the Rehab department. Wayne's career path later led him to the Little Rock School District and Pulaski County Special School District, where he touched the lives of countless children as a bus driver, custodian, and playground supervisor, where he would have the children go find SNIPE (whatever that was) to keep them busy. After leaving the school district, Wayne worked at several companies including: Propack, Sage V Rice, Caterpillar, and Kroger. His most recent job was with the Little Rock Child Nutrition Warehouse where he was a delivery driver.

Wayne joined St. Mark Baptist Church under the leadership of Bishop Steven Arnold; he served in the male chorus choir and on the church security team. He later followed Bishop Arnold to Grace Temple where he served as security and Bishop Arnold Armor Bearer.

As a member of the Young Lions of David, AFAM Lodge #30, Wayne was known for his infectious laughter, love for BBQ, and his secret sauce that delighted many. He was a cherished figure in the 2nd Street GQ’ers dance group, which transformed into lifelong family and friends who would travel together and be there for each other during life events. His warmth and humor were the life of every gathering, where he enjoyed dancing with his grandchildren and leaving everyone he spoke to on the phone with a heartfelt "Right On."

 In 1987, Wayne rekindled his relationship with Cynthia Washington, whom he married on June 24, 1989. Together, they raised a beautiful family, welcoming their son, Demetrius. Wayne is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Cynthia Coleman; his sister, Arda Franks; his sons, Brian Keith Taylor, Donshae Eugene Coleman, and Demetrius Eugene Coleman; and his grandchildren: Dantevious, Ta’Nya, Braylon, D’Zenitie, Na’Kiyia, DreZden, La’Shae, and Y’shua. He also leaves behind his extended family, the 2nd Street GQ’ers, Sammie James, Lisa Langston, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, adopted children and grandchildren, who affectionally called him Pops and Paw-Paw, and many friends who will forever cherish his memory. As Wayne joins his loved ones in heaven, we celebrate a life well-lived and find comfort in knowing he is welcomed with open arms and smiles.