Arnell Coleman

Arnell M. Coleman, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Columbus, Ohio, on Monday, November 25, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 71 years old.

Arnell was born on January 31, 1953, in Hudson, New York, to Herman H. Coleman and Virginia Barksdale Coleman. She grew up in Hartford, Connecticut, as one of eleven siblings, fostering deep connections with her family.

Arnell pursued post-secondary training and college courses that prepared her for a dynamic and fulfilling career. She worked in law offices and for prominent insurance firms in Connecticut, including Traveler’s and Aetna. She served in government working for the State of Connecticut and for the Hartford City Manager’s Office. Her professionalism, dedication, and resourcefulness made her a valued colleague and mentor.

Known for her vibrancy and beauty, Arnell’s personality lit up every room she entered. Her friends affectionately called her "Red." An avid reader with an insatiable curiosity, Arnell loved helping people find and access resources to help with their families, careers, and education. Her passion for empowering others was an inspiring and endearing quality of her personality.

Arnell was a member of Faith Ministries Church in Columbus, Ohio, where her son and grandchildren were baptized. She was deeply involved in her local community, actively contributing to its growth and well-being.

In the early 2000s, Arnell moved from Hartford, Connecticut to Columbus, Ohio, to be close to her son and his growing family. Her devotion to her loved ones was a hallmark of her life. She poured her love, wisdom, and laughter into every moment shared with them, leaving a legacy of warmth and strength.

Arnell was preceded in death by her parents Herman and Virginia Coleman, and her sisters Christine Elmira Coleman and Elizabeth Carol Coleman Reynolds, and her brothers H. Austin Coleman, George A. Coleman, Charles Coleman, and Dennis Eric Coleman. She is survived and loved by her sisters Terry Lee Coleman Goodman and Sherril Ann Coleman and her brothers Garfield Coleman and Virgil W. Coleman Sr., of Hartford, Connecticut; her son Allen S. Coleman and daughter-in-law Crystal Y. Coleman of Columbus, Ohio; and her beloved grandchildren, Iyana C. Coleman and Malachi A. Coleman, and a host of cherished nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Arnell’s life was a testament to love, kindness, and connection. She was a resource and confidante for her family and friends, always ready with a listening ear, a warm smile, or thoughtful advice. She delighted in vibrant conversations and heartfelt laughter, which brought joy to all who knew her.

A Homegoing Celebration in honor of Arnell’s life will take place on December 30, 2024, at 11:00 AM, at Faith Ministries Church at 2747 Agler Rd, in Columbus Ohio, and a memorial service will take place on January 7, 2025, in her hometown of Hartford, Connecticut, where family and friends will gather to celebrate her remarkable journey.

Arnell’s legacy of love, resilience, and generosity lives on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.