Idrissa Kader Beh Coulibaly

Idrissa Kader Beh Coulibaly, affectionately known as Idriss, entered eternal rest on July 19, 2025, in Muskegon, Michigan. He was born on March 25, 1955, in Khorogo, Côte d'Ivoire, West Africa, to the late Kader and Sanata Coulibaly. Idriss brought with him the depth of his heritage and the strength of his faith to every place he called home. After living abroad in the United Kingdom for a short time, he decided to put down roots in Muskegon and was in the community for 40 years, building not only a life but a lasting legacy.
Idriss came to the United States on a scholarship to attend Muskegon Community College and later attended Western Michigan University. After earning his bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Idriss built a lasting career as an accountant and sales executive for Novartis and Gerber. He brought sharp insight and integrity to each role until his retirement in October 2024. Spiritually, Idriss found the Lord early in life and remained a steadfast follower of Jesus Christ, living as a man of deep conviction, prayer, and purpose until the Lord called him home. He was a dedicated member of Queen Esther Missionary Baptist Church for 20 years, where he served as Vice Chairman of the Deacon Ministry. He attended bible study and Sunday school and was a very involved member of the church. Idriss's favorite book in the bible was Psalms.
To know Idriss was to witness strength wrapped in humility, discipline infused with compassion, and leadership rooted in service. He believed deeply in protecting and providing for his family, leading with a steady but caring hand. Whether through a quiet gesture or a firm word of guidance, he walked in the example of Christ and served as a pillar not only in his home but also in the lives of many. Idriss spoke several languages, French, German, and English. He loved watching soccer and teaching his oldest grandson how to play the game. He met the love of his life, Sherri Antoinette Guidry, in the 80s, but it would be April 30, 2016, when they became husband and wife. Together, they shared a life of faith, family, and fierce love. He also loved traveling with Sherri, around the United States and abroad.
Idriss is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sherri Antoinette Guidry Coulibaly, who passed October 3, 2024. He is also preceded in death by his parents, where he will join them in the land beyond pain and time. Idriss leaves his children to cherish his memories, Adam Coulibaly, Alexsandria Guidry-Burse, and Andrew Coulibaly, as well as his nephew Piergagnon (Sheryl) Coulibaly, whom he loved and raised as his own. He also raised bonus children: Robert Nesbary (preceded him in death), Aliciana Nesbary, and Admiral Nesbary. He also leaves behind his Family Coulibaly Kader, who wait to reunite with him once more. Idriss leaves his dear mother-in-law, Icie Mae Guidry, brother-in-laws, sister-in-laws, nieces and nephews, and two close friends, Taurai Muchanyuka and Martin Ehoumen. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Nehemiah Pulphus, Ca'Laya Coulibaly, A'Zari Coulibaly, and Obinzie Coulibaly, each of whom carries his wisdom and fire forward.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported Idriss throughout his final chapter. We are deeply grateful to Johnny and Jackie Marion, Pastor Samuel Greer, and the Queen Esther family, as well as the compassionate team at Harbor Hospice, especially Nurse Mac, Social Worker Phylis, and his private CNA Jaiden.
The funeral will be held on Monday, July 28th, at Queen Esther Missionary Baptist Church. A public viewing will begin at 11:00am, with the services commencing at 12:00pm.
Arrangements have been entrusted to The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 737 Apple Avenue, Muskegon, MI 49442. Sign the online guestbook at https://www.sytsemafh.com