Thomas I. Coffman

In memory of Thomas I. Coffman, Jr. of Houston, Texas who passed away from his 20-year battle with Parkinson's Disease on September 20, 2023. He was born on December 23, 1941, in Bisbee, AZ to Thomas I. Coffman and Etta Caroline McPherson. He married his loving wife Frances Esperanza Coffman on March 8, 1962, and they enjoyed 61 years of marriage together.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents Thomas I. Coffman, Etta Caroline McPherson, stepfather Jack Kay McPherson, and sibling Kathy C. McPherson. Tom is survived by his wife Frances Coffman, his siblings Terry A. McPherson, and Candy K. Finley (Bill). His children Lora A. Coffman, Theresa A. Merchant (Michael), Thomas A. Coffman, and Richard I. Coffman. His five grandchildren Tabitha Schacherl, Amanda Schacherl, Nicole Buchberger (Zachary), Nathaniel Archie Merchant, and Natali Merchant. His nieces and nephews Wendy, Jarrett, TJ, Kathya, Ben, and Cayo and other extended family members. Tom was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He married the love of his life, spending 61 years together, living in multiple countries and states. From baby powder fights in Germany to spending a lifetime together.  He supported his children and their dreams to the best of his ability. Tom was very proud of his children and all their accomplishments in their lives.

Tom served five years in the United States Army from 1960 to 1965 and was a proud Veteran of the 1st Cavalry Division.  Tom attended the University of Berkley and had a long successful career in computer science and specialized in the AS400. He enjoyed cheering his children on in their extracurricular activities, coaching soccer and being a Boy Scout leader. He enjoyed cooking and barbecuing for his family and every family meal for the holidays which included extended family often. He met challenges head on with any adversity that came his and his family’s way. He loved his wife, his children, and grandchildren. He loved his friends and co-workers. He enjoyed many pets in his lifetime as well and their most recent dog, Sugar, who brought great joy to him. His hobbies included woodworking, frame making, and enjoyed rooting for The Fighting Texas Aggies at Kyle Field. He also held the title Honorary Submariner from his Tiger Cruise on the USS Norfolk SSN-714. He refused to submit to the toll Parkinson's took over his body and kept fighting until the end, with his family by his side.

Our family would like to thank everyone for their kindness and support during this difficult time. No funeral or memorial service is immediately planned. Our family will notify loved ones in the future when a celebration of life service is scheduled. We thank you for your understanding.

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