Harriet A. Coleman

Harriet Ann Coleman

10/6/1943 – 9/17/2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Harriet Ann Coleman, age 80, at her home in Dover Estates in Orlando, Florida on September 17, 2024. She was a great inspiration to many people during her many years working with students, teachers and parents in Polk County and Orange County school systems.

 Harriet was a Christian Lady and a member of First Presbyterian Church of Orlando and continues to rest in peace with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, through eternity.

 She attended Midville Elementary, Junior-Senior High Schools where she was an excellent student and athlete. She graduated in 1961 and moved to Orlando, Florida to live with her aunt, Nell D’Orsay and attend Orlando Junior College where she earned her Associate of Arts degree. She then moved to Lakeland, Florida and enrolled at Florida Southern College where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Education.

 Harriet received her Master’s Degree in Administration and Supervision from Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida in 1981. She was then promoted to Administrative Dean in Orange County Public Schools before being appointed Assistant Principal for Instruction at Carver Middle School. Her next promotion, she assumed the Principalship of Robinswood Junior High School.

 One of her career goals was to open a new school, therefore, she left Robinswood Middle School in 1993 when she was appointed Principal of the new Hunters Creek Middle School. The dedication ceremony for Hunters Creek MS was held on January 13, 1995. She had 10 great years there and it received an A rating every year that she was the principal. She retired from Orange County Public Schools in June of 2005.The gymnasium was given her name upon her retirement, Harriet A. Coleman Gymnasium.

 In 2007, she accepted an Adjunct Professor position at UCF for the Education Department and finally retired from all work in 2012.

 Harriet was like family to many people and will be truly missed by everyone.