Almon Ray "Al" Coleman

Almon "Al" Ray Coleman, 81, of Piedmont, MO, passed away peacefully Monday, November 17, 2025, at his residence surrounded by his loving family. Al was born February 12, 1944, at the family homeplace in the Peach Tree Community near Piedmont to parents Everett J. and Mary J. (Eaton) Coleman.

Al was a quiet man that spoke with his actions more than his words, but you knew when he did speak you should listen because it was sincere, honest and wise. Al spent his entire life in our community, attending High School and graduating at Clearwater in 1961. His early career was spent as a mechanic for Larry Johnson and at Ross Ford. He was well known for his abilities in automotive repair. Al also served in Army National Guard in Missouri for six years. Al met his lifelong companion Jean Daggett, as a result of a blind date. On May 21, 1966, they married in Des Arc and together they spent an amazing fifty-nine years together. After they were married Al purchased Jess Johnson's discount store which sold clothing and shoes. He started with almost nothing, only $35.00 in the cash register to make change. A short time later he changed the name to Coleman's Shoes and Clothing. Jean was a great help to Al in this endeaver, as well as his sister-in-law Jojo Daggett who was a faithful employee for 30 years. Al was known as a steady, quiet and kind businessman and was prudent in all his ways. In 1989, Al purchased the Ben Franklin building and enlarged his store and later incorporated custom embroidery, custom heat transfer designs, and sign making. Many customers have been measured for correct sizing of shoes, suits and special occasion tuxedos by Al Coleman.

Al was honored by his family. Not only was he a good provider, he was a good moral compass for his family. Christ was the center of Al's life. He was a dedicated member of Peach Tree General Baptist Church. He served as a deacon for over forty-three years. He drove the bus and brought many children and widows to church. He had a true servant's heart. Al and Jean played a significant role in raising two children, Rachel Sisco and her sister Leah Crum, and one Godchild Michelle Birschbach whom they loved like daughters. Al had also been active for many years in Piedmont Rotary Club and had been honored as businessperson of the year in Piedmont.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers: James, Rodney and Wesley Coleman.

He was survived by his loving wife Jean of nearly sixty years; his loving children: Holly Wohlschlaeger and husband Brian of Huntsville, AL, Alison Chitwood and husband Lee of Piedmont, and Brooke Alcorn and husband Jerry of Piedmont; his loving grandchildren: Christiana Graham and husband Frank, Samuel Wohlschlaeger, Benjamin Wohlschlaeger, Chloe Wohlschlaeger, Libby Kindle and husband Caleb, Emilee Chitwood, Haley Burnett and husband Taylor, Bryce Alcorn, Jenna Alcorn; loving great grandchildren: Hayes, Kollyns, Porter, Harlow; his loving brother, Larry Coleman and wife Sherry of Owensville; his loving sister, Sharon Morris and husband Larry; and nieces and nephews.

He brought so much to our community and will be deeply missed.

Visitation will be held Thursday, November 20, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 pm, at Ruegg Funeral Home, Piedmont, MO. Services will follow Friday November 21, 2025, at 11:00 am, at Peach Tree General Baptist Church near Piedmont. Burial will be in Peach Tree Cemetery with full military honors. Online condolences can be made at www.rueggfuneralhomes.com.