Patricia Helms Coman

1925 - 2023

Patricia Helms Coman

January 2, 1925 - October 13, 2023

Durham, North Carolina - Patricia Helms Coman born January 2 1925, died peacefully October 13, 2023 at Duke Regional Hospital. A life long resident of Durham, she enjoyed 19 years at Croasdaile Village. She was the daughter of the late Howard J. Helms and Myrtle S. Helms. After graduating Durham High school in 1943 she went to Greensboro College. She completed studies in art, music and french graduating in 1947.

Pat was married to William T Coman for 57 happy years until his death in 2004. She was preceded in death by her brother Howard J Helms Jr. She is survived by her daughter Patsy Coman Peay; son William Coman Jr and wife Judy; daughter Carol Allen; 8 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren.

Pat had a love for music and was a talented piano player. She loved gardening and made beautiful floral arrangements. She was a highly accomplished equestrian while in college.

Pat's well rounded life of community involvement included participation as a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Durham Choral Society, President of the Durham Council of Garden Clubs, President of the United Methodist Women, President of the Stagville Associates, and President of the Durham Historic Preservation Society.

Pat and her husband Bill served as long time members of the Duke Memorial United Methodist Church. She served on multiple committees and planned many events over the years. She and her husband founded the History Room for the church, and worked to have Duke Memorial listed on the National Register of Historic Places. She was a woman of great faith and was dedicated to her beliefs.

The Coman family is under the care of Hall-Wynne Funeral Home. A private graveside service will be held for the family at Maplewood Cemetery at a later date. Memorial donations can be made to the Patron's Music Fund at Duke Memorial United Methodist Church in lieu of flowers.