In Loving Memory of Ruth Coleman

1940 – 2025

It is with deep sorrow and boundless love that we announce the passing of Ruth Coleman—beloved mother, devoted grandmother, and treasured friend. Ruthie left us peacefully in the early hours of Sunday, May 25, 2025, surrounded by the warmth of her family and the dedicated care of her loving team.

Born in 1940 in Griffin, Georgia, Ruthie was raised by her parents, Durwood and Imogene, alongside her three sisters—Gail, Donna, and Deborah. From an early age, she embraced the values of resilience, grace, and family that would shape her life and touch all who knew her.

In 1970, she married Lin Coleman, and in 1974 they made Key Biscayne their home. There, Ruthie became a vibrant part of the island community—an active presence at the Key Biscayne Yacht Club, Beach Club, local tennis circles, and the American Legion Auxiliary. She lovingly raised her daughters, India and Jennifer, on Redwood Lane, in the heart of the island she adored. At her peak, she could often be found walking the beach to the lighthouse, a daily ritual that reflected her vitality and deep connection to the sea. For over fifty years, Key Biscayne wasn’t just her residence—it was her sanctuary.

A passionate tennis player, Ruthie served as tennis captain at the Key Biscayne Yacht Club in the 1980s, admired for her elegant style and spirited competitiveness. She also brought her energy and charm to the professional tennis world, working on early tournaments like the Virginia Slims at The Sheraton Royal Biscayne and later, The Lipton Open—what is now The Miami Open.

Ruthie’s radiant personality, effortless beauty, and warm sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered. She was the heart and soul of her family, offering unconditional love and support to her daughters, and pouring her joy into her grandchildren—Caleigh, Abby, and Garrett. A simple FaceTime call from Garrett or Abby could lift her spirits and bring her a pure, radiant joy that transcended the challenges she faced.

While we deeply grieve the loss of Ruthie’s vibrant presence, we also celebrate the remarkable life she led—a life defined by kindness, quiet strength, enduring love, and an unwavering devotion to her family and community. Despite facing many hardships, she carried herself with extraordinary grace and fortitude.

Rest in peace, dearest Ruthie. Your light will continue to shine in the hearts of your children, grandchildren, sisters, chosen family, devoted friends and all those lucky enough to have known and loved you. Your legacy of love, laughter, and resilience lives on today and always.

Ruthie’s strong wishes to remain at home during her last months, were fulfilled  with a lot of coordination and love.

Ruthie is survived by her daughters Jennifer and India, her grandchildren Caleigh, Abby, and Garrett, son-in-laws Sikes Ragan and Tony Carter; son Bill & Michelle with Tyler & Eric Abbott, Tori & Anna Coleman; grandchildren Maddie & Coleman Wellstead, brother-in-law , Clark & Casey Coleman; sister-in-law India, David, Camille, Lianna, & Alyssa Norman; Cady, Michael, Kingston, Brooklyn, & Princeton Mooney; brother-in-law King & Liz Coleman, Roby Peaty Eliese Keith; sister Donna, nephew Robert & Wendy with Max & Danielle Tilson; niece Stefanie, Vance & Haydon Nix; niece wiEllen with Liz Garland and Timothy Chandler; nephew Scott with Seth, Evan & Robbie Lynch; and niece Dawn Lynch.

Preceded in death by her husband Lin and daughter Fran, sisters Gail & Deborah, her parents Durwood & Imogene Lewis, and her nephews Coleman & Wyle Norman.

Ruthie’s Celebration of Life event to be announced soon with an update posted so please check back as this link will be updated.  

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