Alfonza Coleman

In Loving Memory of Alfonza Coleman Jr. 
February 22, 1944 – August 18, 2025 

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of Alfonza Coleman Jr., who departed this life on August 18, 2025, at the age of 81. 

Born on February 22, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois, Alfonza was the cherished son of the late Eva Coleman and Alfonza Coleman Sr. He was raised in a home grounded in faith, family, and hard work—values that shaped every step of his life. 

Attending Dunbar Vocational Career Academy, in Chicago, IL. From 1972 to 1974, he worked alongside his father as a smokestack technician at Coleman Construction for Corn Products INC. He later relocated to Erie, Pennsylvania, where he continued his strong work ethic in the railroad industry, overseeing sike pulling operations, followed by roles as a health aide at Alpine Manor, and a custodian at Waldamer Park and Cascade United Methodist Church. 

Alfonza was known for his gentle demeanor, steady presence, and wisdom. He found joy in CB radio systems, peace in fishing, and fun in card games, often surrounded by the laughter of loved ones. A deeply family-oriented man, Alfonza’s greatest happiness was found in being present for the people he loved. 

He shared a lifelong bond with his beloved wife and best friend, Dorothy Coleman. Their love was a beautiful example of partnership, trust, and enduring friendship—built over time and grounded in grace. 

He was the proud and devoted father of: 
Charlayne Carr, Cynthia Coleman, Theyyer Peake, Crystal Johnson, Alexandria Coleman, Alfonza Coleman III, Andrea Coleman, Johnathan Coleman, Shantel Coleman, Keyjaun Coleman, and Demari Coleman. 

A loyal brother to: 
Deborah Coleman, Johnny “Foster” Coleman, Wesley “Peterboy” Coleman, Essie Coleman, Calvin Ringer, and Rita Ringer. 

Alfonza was also a loving grandfather to 27 grandchildren, and a joyful great-grandfather to many great-grandchildren who will carry his memory forward with pride and love. 

He leaves behind a large and loving extended family, including his brother-in-law Edward Johnson Jr., and sisters-in-law Bonnie Johnson, Debbie Johnson, Jessie Johnson, and Ruthann Johnson, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends, all of whom were touched by his kindness. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Eva Coleman and Alfonza Coleman Sr., as well as Jimmy “James” Johnson, Edward Johnson Sr., and Gail Johnson, with whom he is now reunited in eternal peace. 

A celebration of Alfonza’s life will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 1012 East 28th Street, Erie, Pa 16504 (Gym Entrance) beginning at 4:00 PM to honor a man who lived humbly, worked hard, and loved unconditionally. Though he is no longer with us in body, his presence lives on in every memory, every shared story, and every heart he touched. 

“To live in the hearts of those we love is never to die.” 

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