Obituary published on Legacy.com by Freeman Mortuary - Jefferson City on Aug. 23, 2025.
Janis Lee "Jan" Coffman, age 77, of
Jefferson City, Mo., passed away, Thursday, August 21, 2025, at Capital Region medical Center.
She was born on October 8, 1947, in Lincoln, Illinois, the daughter of Donald Wayne and Mary Ruth (Garton) Aderman. She was married on June 29, 1996, in Columbia, Mo., to Dale Eugene Coffman. What began as a shared commitment to their work soon blossomed into a deep and lasting partnership. They were married for nearly 30 years, building a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support for one another.
Jan was a 1965 graduate of Lincoln Community High School and later pursued college courses to further her education. Her professional journey was diverse and accomplished, beginning at Federal Bureau of Investigation in the 1970's, a position she held with great pride. She then worked for the Lincoln Water Company, where she would later meet her husband, Dale. After moving to Missouri in 1995, she began at the Mizzou Credit Union where she would eventually retire from as a trusted teller. Throughout her career, Jan was known for her strong work ethic, attention to detail, and kindness toward coworkers and customers alike.
Jan's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was a devoted member of Lincoln Christian Church in Lincoln, Illinois, and later became a member of Capital City Christian Church in Jefferson City, where she continued to grow in her faith and deepen her spiritual journey.
Jan lived a rich and vibrant life, filled with curiosity, creativity, and a deep love for the world around her. She was an avid traveler, with favorite destinations including the beautiful beaches of Bermuda and Hawaii, sunny Florida, and the scenic landscapes across Missouri. In her younger years, she especially enjoyed camping in Yellowstone National Park, where she embraced the peaceful rhythm of nature.
A lifelong learner at heart, Jan loved to read-two of her favorite books were The Diary of Anne Frank and A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Her creative spirit also found an outlet in scrapbooking, where she thoughtfully preserved memories for future generations. Jan had a knack for treasure hunting, often spending weekends at flea markets and auctions. She even ran her own booth from time to time, proudly showcasing her eye for one-of-a-kind finds. She was also a skilled and patient angler who loved fishing and took great pride in teaching her children how to cast a line. Animals held a special place in Jan's heart, especially the cows she lovingly cared for while helping Dale on the farm. And no memory of Jan would be complete without mentioning her favorite dessert-homemade peach pie, a sweet treat that always brought a smile to her face.
Above all, Jan cherished her family, holding them closest to her heart. She was meticulously organized, a trait admired by many, and she had a soft spot for collecting Longaberger baskets. Jan was a strong, independent woman who could be firm when needed, yet she always led with love, compassion, and a nonjudgmental heart. She will truly be missed by all who have had the privilege of knowing her.
She is survived by her loving husband, Dale; children, Darrin Stopher, of
Jefferson City, Mo., Tammy Lercher (Mark) of Raymond, Ill., and Wendy Coffman, of
Jefferson City, Mo.; sister-in-law, Kathy Aderman; grandchildren, Bradley, Drake, and Evan; and several nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.
Jan is preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Mary Aderman; and her brother Kenny Norman Aderman.
Visitation will be at Freeman Mortuary from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m., Thursday, August 28, 2025.
A funeral service will be conducted at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, August 28, 2025, in the Freeman Chapel with the Reverend Don Fankhauser officiating. Graveside services and interment will be held at Hawthorn Memorial Gardens.
A webcast of Jan's service will begin at 1:00 p.m., Thursday for friends that are not able to attend by clicking the "Webcast Now" button below her obituary.
A second celebration of life for Jan will be held at Jefferson Street Christian Church, in Lincoln, Ill., at 1:00 p.m., September 27, 2025.
In lieu of flowers, Jan's family kindly asks that attendees bring a canned or boxed food item to be donated to the Samaritan Center or
The Salvation Army, in honor of generous spirit.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary, 915 Madison St,
Jefferson City, MO 65101.