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Melvin Coleman Obituary

Waterford - Melvin A. Coleman, 91, died Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, at the Beechwood Manor Nursing Home in New London. He was the beloved husband of Reva (Iba) Coleman for 66 years. Born in Providence, son of the late Ernest and Rose (Petow) Coleman, he had lived in Waterford, 60 years.

He was the owner of Allied TV & Video in Groton for 25 years and previously worked for EB General Dynamics.

Melvin was in the U.S. Army and Army Reserves. He was a member of Congregation Beth El in New London and Telsa. Melvin earned certificates in Naturopathic Medicine and electronics. He was a volunteer for Special Olympics in Waterford. Melvin enjoyed watching movies, plays on Broadway, special trips to New York City, and being with animals, especially cats. Most of all, he doted on his four grandchildren and wife and loved spending time with his family.

He was the devoted father of Sherri Dennis (Donald) of Cotuit, Mass., and Linda Coleman (Dr. Clifford Gordon) of Barrington, R.I.; dear brother of Howard Coleman (Brenda) of Derby; and loving grandfather of Nathaniel, Halle, Jenna and Cameron.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, at Lincoln Park Cemetery in Warwick, R.I. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the animal charity of your choice, Beth El Synagogue, or Beacon Hospice.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Day on Feb. 25, 2026.

Memories and Condolences
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5 Entries

Linda Coleman

March 8, 2026

There aren´t one or two single memories I would to point to about my father. It´s a life time of them. What matters more to me is that he had good memories-and that he knew he was appreciated and loved...once I finally grew up.
Granted, I didn´t really grow up until I was 30. I know he knew that I knew he was the best father he could be.
And I know that throughout his "parent" life-especially in those last days when he chose hospice-he found comfort in the memories knowing how loved he was.
When I look back on all the time we spent together, I think of years of weekends with him sleeping over in the "grandparent room," when we played and watched movies. Later, when Nathaniel got older, between visits there were those years and years when we´d take our annual vacation together for a week just to hang out, enjoying each other´s company. After that came the frequent visits at the house or going to the nursing home, bringing him lots of food, which he always enjoyed. I know those memories gave him comfort and security of a life well lived.
And I know he knew I loved him. I know he loved me too, because he never missed an opportunity to hug me and tell me.

Elizabeth Anderson

February 27, 2026

I knew Mel from his service on the Southeastern Connecticut Film Commission, and later as a neighbor. He was an enthusiastic volunteer in his community. I send my condolences to Reva and her family.

Nathan Weiss

February 25, 2026

Dear Reva & family:

From my perspective when I was a little boy 60 years ago, Mel was a kind, gentle giant. My dad, Charley Weiss, always considered him a good friend. May his memory always be for a blessing. May you be comforted by family and frienda and may Mel rest in peace.

With sincere condolences,

Nate Weiss and family

Gary Pinkham

February 25, 2026

Reva, Sherri, Linda and families... My sincere condolances to you all in the passing of your husband and father Mel.
I have many fond memories of him and you all from our neighborhood on Dimmock Road so many years ago. His Allied TV van was iconic! He was a very good guy!
May his memory be a blessing.

Dave Fairman

February 25, 2026

Rest in Peace Mel an all around great guy

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