Edwin Smith Coates

I just found out that Mr. Coates passed away, and was devastated (shedding tears) that I missed his service. My memories of Edwin and Goldie Coates go back to the mid-seventies, when I was a student at Meredith College. They were the Forest Hills "parents" for college students, taking us under their wings, and hosting us in their home for fellowship and delicious food! What a huge impact they both made upon my young life.

Years later, he called out of the blue and convinced me (a struggling teacher at the time) that I could indeed afford to join him, Mrs. Coates, and others for a tour of England and Scotland. One of the best decisions I ever made!

I have kept somewhat in touch over the years, although not nearly as much I should have. Time truly rushes on...

My prayers go out to his lovely family. May precious memories abound, and may you feel God's comfort and peace in the days and months to come. A true saint Edwin Coates was. I am comforted in the knowledge that I will see him again one day...

Love Ed & Goldie (& the girls). Great neighbor, dear family friend, and volunteer, leader, & steward at church. Always friendly, caring, & supportive.

Heartfelt condolences to Goldie, Debra & fam, & Lori & Kevin & fam,

-Steve Gurganus

The Trustees, Faculty, and students were saddened to hear of Dr. Coates passing. We are truly thankful for all that Edwin and Goldie have done for Gardner-Webb University. Our condolences to the family as you make this transition. Tami Ruckman, Advancement Officer

I was very lucky to have known Ed through the years! I actually got to work for him 1 summer during high school. Having memories of visiting him, Goldie and the girls. My thoughts and prayers are with you Goldie and the girls.
Much love,
Michael Brown

I have the most wonderful memories of Mr.Coates during the years that I lived in Raleigh.
I met him and Goldie as soon as I joined Forest Hills Baptist Church.
They quickly became a very important part of my life.
Mr.Coates put me in touch with a friend and that led to an interview with Dr. Ann Louise Wilkerson medical office.
I interviewed and got the perfect job with the practice.
He and Goldie welcomed me into their home for Bible studies and wonderful meals.
Those were the sweetest times of fellowship.
He always had a smile and a hug to greet you.
He always shared his faith and knowledge of God´s word.
My heart and prayers are with Goldie, Debra, Lori and their families.

Ode To Ed Coates

Ed Coates - I admire
Hospitality - he and Goldie taught by doing
Businessman - par excellent
Faith - lived out every day
Friend - the real deal
Rotarian - one of a kind
Leader - competition to follow him
Love - 1 Corinthians 13
Missed - very much

You all know Edwin travelled quite a bit in the course of his work. I did also. I recall walking into a concourse of the Nashville airport to meet an associate, and spied Edwin sitting reading a newspaper. Rather than simply walking up to him, I quietly sat down a few seats away, and after a while spoke to him, asking if he could tell me the time. You all know the big "Hi!", and laugh with which he greeted me!
A particularly dear memory that includes Edwin was hearing him and his brothers sing together, both at family reunions and once at Grandpa Coates' church in Smithfield. I think they were all really tenors, but they covered the parts beautifully!
Stephen Coates, nephew

Dearest Mr. Coates has always been one of my favorite people at church. He had a permanent smile on his face and I always got a hug and kiss on my cheek. He also told me several times that I looked just like one of his former girlfriends. So we had a special bond.
I will miss him dearly.

I am in awe, after reading about how accomplished Mr. Coates was. It is quite remarkable that a man so accomplished could be so down-to-earth and show genuine interest in the spiritual life and well-being of a young person like myself. I grew up at Forest Hills Baptist Church, and I just remember how he was an encourager to me. He did truly love people, and he made a wonderful impression on my life. Thank you Lord, for Mr. Coates! Until that glorious day, he will be missed!

My first memory of Edwin and Goldie was of their wedding when I was wee thing. More specifically, I remember all his brothers (all if whom were already married) sneaking around whispering requests fir their wives´ lipsticks. Even I could tell something was up-they were acting like giddy ten-year-olds. Edwin´s car was just outside. You can guess the rest.

Many years later, we shared a delightful day when he regaled me with childhood stories as I interviewed him for a memoir I was writing about my dad, Edwin´s next older brother. How I miss them all. My living sympathies to Goldie, Debra, and Lori and their families.

As his niece I have cherished memories of him welcoming us renegade Minnesotans back to the fold for one of the famous Coates family reunions. I can still see and hear him calling me "Honey Chil(d)" as a warm hug enveloped me. I´m so lucky to have been able to call him my Uncle. Becka Coates

Ed was a great mentor for me at Forest Hills Baptist Church. He was always smiling and joking around. He really made you feel welcomed. I'm sure, when it's my time to graduate, Ed will be at the gates with St. Peter welcoming everyone home. Looking forward to shaking his hand again.