Earl Samuel “Sam” Coleman, 81, of Richmond, died Thursday, November 19, 2020, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Sam was born on September 15, 1939, in Ray County, the son of Samuel and Lydia Katherine (Blann) Coleman. He was united in marriage to Mary Ruth Austin of Richmond on May 27, 1972; she preceded him in death on January 1, 2019.

Survivors include: son: Greg A. Coleman of Richmond; two daughters: Teresa (Johnny) Teeman of Oriental, NC, and Melinda “Mendy” (James) Windsor of Richmond; 7 grandchildren: Nicholas (Ashli) Teeman, Colby (Nicole) Teeman, Jayce (Tenaya) Teeman, Austin Coleman, Justin Coleman, Elizabeth (Cory Canterbury) Windsor, and Alexander Windsor; and 5 greatgrandchildren: Emma Teeman, Stella Teeman, Jackson Teeman, Jameson Teeman, and Jensen Teeman; brother, Harold F. Coleman of Lexington; and sister, Marjorie Katherine Smith of Mayview; and his best buddy and pal, his dog, Chester.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, brothers, Melvin Leroy Coleman, Gerald Coleman, and Chalmers Coleman, and sisters, Vivian Boston and Nancy Strohecker.

Sam graduated from Richmond High School in 1956. He worked for Yellow Freight, as a truck driver for 36 years, and retired. He then worked for the City of Richmond, in the Public Works Department, for 10 years. He also worked for Ray County Special Road District for 10 years. Sam was a volunteer fireman for the Richmond Fire Department for 40 years and retired as Assistant Chief. He served as city council member for ward 3 for 4 and a half terms. Sam was a member of the Richmond Masonic Lodge and a 32nd Degree Mason. He also was a Shriner for 50 years and was a member of the Scottish Rite. He loved fishing, going to the Lake of the Ozarks, trips to Nashville to the Grand Ole Opry, and following his grandchildren in all their activities.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street, P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with Masonic services and funeral services were held on Sunday, November 22, 2020, at Thurman Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 1:00 P.M., with a Masonic service to start at 2:00 P.M., followed by his funeral. Burial will be in Richmond Memory Gardens.

Please remember to share your memories of Sam with the family by visiting thurmanfuneralhome.com