Mary Ruth Forman Coleman was a devoted sister, aunt, cousin and friend. Mary Ruth was the third of nine children and was born on Monday, March 24th, 1941, to Ofes and Lizzie Forman in Riverside, Alabama.
Mary Ruth accepted Christ at a young age and united with First Baptist Church Riverside in Riverside, Alabama. She later joined Rocky Zion Missionary Baptist Church where she remained a member for more than 70 years and served as a Trustee.
Mary Ruth was a proud graduate of St. Clair County Training School class of 1959, where she formed lifelong friendships and developed her passion for learning. Following her education, she was known within the community as a hot press and curl hair dresser for years. She later worked in the weave shop at Avondale Mills where she dedicated many years of hard work and commitment and was respected by her colleagues and known for her steadfast work ethic until her retirement.
Mary Ruth was an active community participant, playing a pivotal role as a founding member of Help Save Our Children, an organization dedicated to the well-being and education of the youth. Her passion for nurturing the next generation was also evident in her love for reading, capturing and displaying memories with her photos, working with flowers, cooking, and solving word search puzzles. Mary Ruth’s interests brought joy and beauty to all who knew her.
She was a beloved sister, aunt, godmother and friend, whose warm spirit touched the lives of many. She was a very special aunt to over 20 nieces and nephews who affectionately called her “Auntie” or “Coleman.”
She is survived by her devoted siblings: Essie Truss of Cropwell, AL, Peggy F. (Donald) Threatt of Lincoln, AL, Verhonda G. Embery of Pell City, Al, Willie James Forman and Ofes (Estelle) Forman of Pell City, AL and Perry (Alice) Forman of Vincent, AL. Mary Ruth was also a cherished godmother to Shawnda Threatt, Erin Threatt and Van Posey, Jr., and remained a beloved figure to a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and numerous friends, including her special friends, Maggie Jean Coleman, Amelia Beavers, Lynda McGraw and a special cousin/sister, Mary Ann Luellen.
Mary Ruth passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 18th, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bester Coleman; her parents, Ofes Forman Sr. and Lizzie Forman; her brother, Lesley Forman, Sr.; her sister, Elizabeth Williams; and her in-laws, Fannie Forman, Jackie Forman, Neal Embery, Sr. and James Truss, Sr.
Mary Ruth’s unconditional love for her family was her greatest source of joy. Her legacy of kindness and love will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace.
May the Lord comfort your family with healing in the days to come 🙏🏽❤️🙏🏽
Praying for her family to find comfort and peace in memories and faith that she has found comfort and peace with our heavenly Father.
With love & deepest sympathy to the families of this beautiful sister. May her soul rest in peace & she will be greatly missed. May God Bless and keep the family and friends of "MaeRuth". Í
With love & deepest sympathy to the families of this beautiful sister. May her soul rest in peace & she will be greatly missed. May God Bless and keep the family and friends of "MaeRuth". Í
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, the church family, the extended family and all who loved and knew Mary Ruth. She will be greatly missed by us all. God is making up His jewels and He chose a precious jewel when He called Mary Ruth home. To be absent from the body is to be present with The LORD.
Our heartfelt condolences to the family. May God give you comfort and strength in this difficult time for the loss of your beloved one.
Our deepest sympathy for your loss Mary Ruth was a Beautiful Soul 😍
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.