Michael Coleman

Dr. Michael Wallace Coleman, a beloved physician, loving husband, devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on April 7, 2025, at his home in Money, Miss. at the age of 77.

Dr. Coleman was born to the late George E. Coleman Sr. and Sarah Coleman of Corinth. He graduated from the University of Mississippi in 1969 and completed his medical degree and residency in ophthalmology at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 1973. He and his family moved to Greenwood, Miss. in 1978. Dr. Coleman was a member of West President Church of Christ for 47 years, where he served as a deacon.

A distinguished ophthalmologist, Dr. Coleman founded Coleman Eye Center in 1978, where he dedicated his career to restoring and preserving the vision of thousands across the Mississippi Delta. Known for his meticulous skill, warm demeanor, and tireless work ethic, he earned the respect and admiration of both colleagues and patients throughout a 46-year career. He became mentor and colleague to his son, Dr. Lee Coleman, who joined him at Coleman Eye Center in 2003.

He was preceded in death by his first wife and high school sweetheart, Rebecca Walker Coleman, with whom he shared 45 years of marriage. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and a shared devotion to their three sons. Their home was filled with laughter, love, and the deep bonds of a family grounded in purpose and gratitude.

In his later years, Dr. Coleman found love again and married Virginia Talbot Coleman of Peachtree City, Ga., with whom he shared a warm and joyful companionship. Virginia brought light, laughter, and a shared love for the Lord to their union, and he cherished every moment they were together deeply. Dr. Coleman was embraced and cherished by her family: Davis and Erica Parten, their children, Kane and Luke; Talbot and Kelsey Parten, their children, Harrison and Lily; and Bryce and Mattie Daniel, their children, Roy, Beau, Jeremiah, and Guinevere.

Dr. Coleman is survived by his wife, Virginia Coleman, and his three sons: Wallace Coleman (Cristal) of Lawrenceburg, Tenn.; Dr. Lee Coleman (Amy) of Greenwood, Miss.; and John Coleman (Jennefer) of Fairhope, Ala. He was the proud grandfather of Grace, Christopher, Caroline, and Gabriel Coleman; Madeleine (Sykes), Walker, Claire (Cioffi), Victoria, Merrick, and Maya Coleman; and Charlie and Thomas Coleman. He was also blessed to know and love four great-grandchildren: Ben, James, and Luke Sykes, and John Cioffi.

He is also survived by his brothers George Coleman of Memphis, Tenn., and Price Coleman of Asheville, N.C.; and his sister Rebecca Phipps of Corinth.

In addition to his medical achievements, Dr. Coleman was a pilot and outdoorsman, enjoying hunting and spending time on the water. He was also a celebrated horseman with a passion for Tennessee Walking Horses. He rode multiple horses to World Grand Championship titles at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration in Shelbyville, Tenn. – the most prestigious event in the sport.

Dr. Coleman was known for his generous nature and was heavily involved in philanthropic efforts. His establishment of the Michael and Becky Coleman Christian Foundation has allowed for the spread of the gospel and mercy ministries through a large variety of entities. He was also passionate about Christian education and contributed heavily to multiple Christian universities and schools. In line with his passion for restoring sight, he was a dedicated supporter of Health Talents International, an organization which conducts medical missions including eye surgery in Central America.

Visitation was held on the evening of Thursday, April 10 from 4-6 p.m. at Wilson and Knight Funeral Home in Greenwood, Miss. Additional visitation will be held Friday, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at West President Church of Christ, with funeral service to follow. The service will be followed by graveside burial for family and close friends at the cemetery located on the family farm near Money, Miss. The service will be officiated by Alex Bayes, and pallbearers will be Walker Coleman, Christopher Coleman, Merrick Coleman, Charlie Coleman, Gabriel Coleman, Thomas Coleman, Michael Sykes, Max Cioffi, Davis Parten, and Talbot Parten.

Memorials may be made to the Michael and Becky Coleman Christian Foundation: Edward Jones FBO Michael and Becky Coleman Christian Foundation 1725 Capitol Circle NE, Suite 302 Tallahassee, FL 32308

Wilson and Knight Funeral Home is in charge. Online guestbook may be signed at www.wilsonandknight.com