Stewart B. Coleman
June 4, 1948 ~ January 29, 2012
Resided in:
Asheville, NC
"That best portion of a good man's life,
His little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and love." – William Wordsworth
Asheville native and lifelong resident Stewart Bryan Coleman died Sunday, January 29, 2012 in Charleston, SC. After a valiant battle with a chronic illness, he died peacefully with his family at his side.
Stewart lived a full life, with energy and passion. His devotion to his family, friends, co-workers and employees, many of whom have worked for Stewart for over 30 years, will be his legacy. From those who knew him for decades to the Pack's Tavern employees who met Stewart only a few years ago, the story is the same. It is a tale of a genuine man who cared deeply about those he loved. His sincere appreciation for each person's unique gifts and talents was a rare and special blessing. His generosity to the countless students he sent to college, his devotion to the community where he was born, raised and chose to live; and his care and compassion for everyone he met were his gifts. His contagious laughter, his zest for life and that shock of silvery white hair blowing in the wind leave a wealth of memories for those he left on Earth.
Born in Asheville, NC to Betty Bryan Coleman and to the late Richard L. (Pokey) Coleman, Sr., Stewart graduated from Lee Edwards High School in 1966 and from NC State University in 1972. In 1969, Stewart married his high school sweetheart, Gay Woolard. Over the course of their 43 years of marriage, they raised two daughters, Whitney and Amanda, and most recently relished being grandparents to Thomas, Taylor, Jackson and Lexi.
Professionally, Stewart was multi-talented. A builder, developer and most recently restaurateur, he began his working career in the family businesses: working with West Terrace Apartments, Edgewood Knolls Apartments, Southern States Leasing Corp., Asheville Mall, Inc., and Sherwood Heights, Inc. Between 1973 and 1993, he operated his own Baskin Robbins franchise, and in 1998 formed SB Coleman Construction Company. Most recently, Stewart developed the 21 Battery Park Condominiums in downtown Asheville, and in 2010 opened Pack's Tavern, for which he received a prestigious Griffin Award for historic preservation.
Stewart's civic contributions form a long list. He served on the board of the NC State Ports Authority, the NC Ports Railway Commission, the UNCA Foundation Board, MANNA Food Bank Board and the Board of Biltmore Forest Country Club. He was a supporter, donor, and member of numerous community organizations including: the Pack Square Park Conservancy, Asheville Art Museum, Pisgah Legal Services, the Community Foundation of WNC, Habitat for Humanity, Lake Logan Episcopal Center, Asheville Community Theater, Red Cross, United Way, the Asheville Arts Council, the Mission Cancer Center, and The Preservation Society of Asheville and Buncombe County. He was a member of Trinity Episcopal Church and the Rhododendron Royal Brigade of Guards. Among his hobbies were cars of all kinds and sailing, remarking that his Trans-Atlantic sailing trip was one of the highlights of his life.
His is survived by his wife, Gay; two daughters, Whitney Israel and her husband, Tom and Amanda Franklin and her husband, Ross; his grandchildren, Thomas, Taylor, Jackson and Lexi; his mother, Betty Bryan Coleman; two brothers, Rick and Tommy, as well as several nieces, nephews and countless close friends.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 3, 2012 at Trinity Episcopal Church in downtown Asheville, with the Right Rev. G. Porter Taylor and the Rev. Carol Hubbard officiating. The family will receive friends following the service in Tuton Hall at Trinity Episcopal.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Lake Logan Episcopal Center, 154 Sunset Mill Road, Canton, NC 28716, to Trinity Episcopal Church, 60 Church Street, Asheville, NC 28801 or to the American Red Cross, 60 Edgewood Road, Asheville, NC 28804.
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I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Coleman. I enjoyed working with him and his brothers in 1996-1997. Stewart was a Southern Gentleman and will be missed.
We are so sorry to hear about Stewart. He barley knew us but always greeted us with a smile and a handshake. What a loss ! May he rest in Peace.
So sorry to hear of Stewart’s passing. Fond memories will last forever and I know he will be missed.
I only met Stewart twice but am left with huge respect for him. Stewart and his lovely wife gave Lucy a second chance at life. See, Lucy was an abandoned Lab that had heartworms. But, after Lucy’s sickness was healed, Stewart and his wife accepted her as their own and I am forever grateful. Such nice people to help a wonderful dog that was thrown away by her previous owner. I will keep the warm memories always in my heart. I only wish I had the opportunity to know him further. He was such a wonderful, caring person with a huge heart. My sympathies are with his wife and family at this extremly diffiecult time.
Hubie and I are heartbroken with your loss. Please know we have been praying for your family.
My sincere colendences go to his lovely wife, Gay, and his entire family. Stewart and his brothers were subscribers to our automotive publication and became fast friends. Stewart was a favorite automotive book customer of mine; always with a smile and friendly attitude. Such a loss to the community. My thoughts and prayers are with Stewart’s family.
We are so sorry to hear of Stewarts passing. He surely will be missed. Our prayers are with you, Gay and your children.
Gay and family, all of you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time! It is hard to understand why people like Stewart are taken from us. Find comfort in knowing that you were a special part of making his a well lived life and in knowing that those who love will be united in eternity. Love and prayers
Dear Gay, we are saddened to learn of Stewart’s passing and pray for God’s peace during this time. Our heartfelt sympathy to you and the family. Stewart will certaily be missed by his friends and the community.
Lynell and Robert
My thoughts are with the Coleman family. Stewart was an amazing man, and a champion for the people of the community when they needed it most.
Dear Gay.
We were so sorry to hear of Stewarts passing. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Many wonderful long ago memories bring a smile to my face even in such sad times.
A wonder man, friend and sailing buddy will surely be missed.
Dennis & Denise Lilly
I feel very fortunate to have known Stewart, even if only for a few short years. He took a chance on me to be a part of his ‘team’ at Pack’s Tavern. He always showed respect, along with a warm smile, every day. His presence will be missed deeply. My heart goes out to everyone in the Coleman family, including the extended family that Stewart, forever loyal, created over his years as a mentor, employer and devoted friend.
Gay, I am so sorry to hear of Stewart’s passing, My thought are with you and your family.
Dear Gay & family,
Bill and I are so saddened to learn of Stewart’s passing. Your friendship during the years will never be forgotten. The family is close in our hearts and prayers. Sincerely, Bill & Betsy Smith
To the entire Coleman family:
My deepest condolences on the passing of Stewart. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.
With sympathy,
Bob Roberts
Dear Gay, Whitney, Amanda & family,
We are so very sorry for the loss of Stewart. Sending love and prayers from your Sullivan’s Island friends and family.
-The Gilmores
Dear Gay,i am so sorry of the passing of such a great guy like Stewart.even though he was a man of wealth and influence,i never knew of Stewart looking down his nose at the ‘common man’.for this reason,i have always had the highest respect for him.like many before me have stated,Stewart will be greatly missed.
Dear Gay and family,
We are deeply saddened by Stewart’s death. He was such a kind, fun and caring person. We will miss him very much. Our hearts and prayers go out to all of the family.
Our condolences go out to all of the families and close friends.
May the grace of God bring you peace during this time of sorrow.
Stewart will be missed by everyone that he touched over the years.
Your friends,
Annette and Wallace Wilcox
Dear Gay,
Keith and I are holding you and your wonderful family in our hearts and prayers. Stewart was such a fun loving, warm person and we will remember him that way. With love –
Dear Gay and family
I am honored to have known such a wonderful man . All my love and prayers to you and the girls.
Dear Gay,
I know words can not take away the sorrow you feel only the ‘LORD’ can do that. But let me say this about Stewart, He was my favorite client. We had more fun dealing on cars! I used to ‘provide’ Porche’s for Stewart while I was with AutoHaus of Asheville. Maybe someday I will have the oppotunity to tell of those times.He was the glue that held The Colemans together.
May the ‘Peace of the LORD’ be with you.
Richard R. Cole
Our sincere condolences. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Dear Gay and all your family,
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Stewart. He will be greatly missed by his family, his friends and all the Asheville community. Please know that our hearts go out to you and your family.
Gay and Family – You are in my thoughts.
Sincerely,
Ginny Matheson
Gay, Whitney, Amanda, and all The Colemans:
The wonderful and indelible image of Stewart lives on. I hope that you will be warmed and comforted by your own memories and those of many friends for years to come, and beyond. Stewart went through a lot, and you have gone through a lot with him. Prayers from all the Stickneys to all the Colemans at this sad time. God bless.
‘Jimbo’ Stickney
Dear Gay and family,
I am so sorry Stewart has passed away. He and I grew up together and I so prayed he would be saved. You and your girls have my symapanthy If there is anything –even small things –let me know–see you Friday
Love Bill and Monica
He was a great guy…. Our thoughts are with you.
Dear Gay & Family,
I am deeply saddened at the tremendous loss of Stewart. My heart and prayers go out to each of you, that you will find comfort in your many precious memories of him.
With my most sincere condolences,
Nancy Eddy-Ramirez
STEWART WAS ONE OF THE NICEST GUYS ON EARTH. HE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED.
My heart and prayers go out to the Coleman family, many childhood memories with the whole family.
So sorry to hear this news about such a good man. I worked with Stewart (he never made you feel like you were working ‘for’ him) on a very challenging project and he impressed me by always taking the ‘high road’ when human nature no doubt leaned the other way. He will truly be missed.
Dear Gay and Family, You are in my heart and prayers during this sad time. Much love, Crystal
Mel and I are very sorry to hear of Stewart’s death. We know he will be greatly missed by family, friends and co-workers. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Gay, I was so sorry to hear of Stewart’s death. You both have given so much to our community and we are all better for that. May the love which surrounds you now help you through this sad transition.
Patsy
Dear Gay, Whitney, Amanda and families,
We are shocked and saddened to hear of Stewart’s passing. Our hearts are filled with sadness but hold onto fond memories of your families and our times together in Asheville. Stewart will be missed by so many. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Bob and Carol Fabrey
Farmington, New Mexico
Im so sorry that your long journey has ended this way, but glad that he had his loving family with him in the end. He will be missed by many, and remember he will always remain with you in your hearts
To Tommy and the Coleman family_ Our deepest condolences to you at this sorrowful time. Stewart was a great guy and will be missed by many.
To Gay and all the Coleman Family.
I don’t have to tell you what kind of man Stewart was, you above all know best. I can only tell you that I share in your loss since he was a client, fellow church member, fellow club member, and most of all friend. I shall miss his generosity, cheery disposition, and friendship until I join him in Heaven. I am greatly honored to have been asked to serve a small function in the service Friday.
It was an honor to work as one of Stewart Coleman’s subcontractors. He was a respected gentleman who always took the time to speak to everyone on the crew. The loyalty shown by his employees is a true reflection of his character.
I WAS VERY SAD TO HEAR OF STEWART’S PASSING. I WORKED FOR HIM ON AND OFF FOR 17 YEARS AND WAS THE LAST PERSON TO MANAGE THE BASKIN ROBBINS BEFORE IT AND THE MALL WERE SOLD. I FOUND HIM TO BE VERY KIND AND GRACIOUS. I AM SURE THIS IS A GREAT LOSS TO YOU AND THE COMMUNITY. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE ENTIRE FAMILY.
Dear Gay and all of your family, I am so very sorry to hear of Stewart’s passing and your family is in my prayers. I always enjoyed being with you both at Brigade events and will remember how kind he was and always the gentleman. Please pass my condolences to Mrs. Coleman. I will continue to keep you lifted up before our Gracious Lord as I know He will care for all of you as you grieve the loss of this wonderful man.
Whitney and Amanda,
I was so sorry to hear about your father’s passing. He was a part of what made Asheville great. I hope you can take comfort in your memories of his life.
Much Love
Kathryn Scott
Gay,I was very sorry to hear of Stewart’s passing. He was a good friend, and we had many wonderful times in high school. My heart and prayers go out to you and the family.
Dear Gay, Whitney and Amande:
I was so sorry to hear of Stewart’s passing. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. I am a better person for having known Stewart.
Dear Gay and Family,
Our heart goes out to you all at this time.
Stewart was a big part of our community,did a lot for us all- and meant a lot to many people! He will be greatly missed.
Fondly, Katrina & David Morgan
My sincere condolences to the family and friends. I will always remember Stewart for the smile on his face and the laugh in his heart.
Gay & all- Because of Stewart I always was made to feel that I was an honorary memeber of the family. I will miss him greatly.
Tom Fawcett
Dear Gay, Whitney, and Amanda,
It is sad and hard to believe that Stewart has passed away.He was called too early and all who knew him will always have an empty space in their hearts.
When next we see the posting of the flags in front of ‘Island Time’ we will know that Stewart is back to the beach in spirit and we will think of him. We pray for you in this difficult time.
Dear Gay and family,
It has been many years since I have seen both you and Stewart. I recently learned of Stewart’s illness and the journey that your entire family has been on. I am so sorry for your loss. There are people that come into our lives that remain in our hearts forever. You and Stewart both have a place in mine. Stewart was truly a gentleman with kind words and a dynamic presence. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Whitney,
Amanda and your entire family.
Love, Betty
To the Coleman Family,
I was so sad to hear from my sister Susan that Stewart had passed away, its so hard to understand these things, one day we will.
Stewart and I went to school together, he was a great guy. Lots of happy memories.
God bless you at this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Beverly Blackwell Salter
Dear Gay and Family:
Please accept our most sincere condolences for your loss. Stewart will be missed. We will always remember that he chose to save the Hayes & Hopson building and build the beautiful Pack’s Tavern, and we will never forget his kindness in honoring our family (Hayes) with pictures and memorabilia. We wish for all of you peace and comfort.
To Gay and all of the Coleman family, Stewart was someone whom others could count on for most anything. Personally, he helped me build my first home, encouraged me to invest in my practice by helping me move to our present location, and above all, gave me good advice (unsolicited or not!). Having known him my entire life was fortunate for me and my family.
Gay Stewart was such a wonderful man
and always had a smile for everyone. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and the family
Dear Gay and Whitney and Amanda: I was so sorry to hear that Stewart passed away in Charleston Sunday.
I will always remember out trip to Atlanta when Tom Israel had asked Whitney to marry him, and Stewart quipped ‘She said No’ and Gay was upset with him for joking about that.He had a great sense of humor and a zest for life. He helped support so many community organizations like the Asheville Art Museum and Community Theatre. He really cared about Asheville and wanted to make Asheville a special place to live and work in. Christine Sams
We are praying for your family in your loss.’Westsound Productions’
Gay,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Betty Huff
Gay,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Betty Huff
Gay,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Betty Huff
Dear Gay and Family
We are deeply saddened to her of your loss. Please know that our thoughts and prayers go out to you in your time of need
Dear Coleman Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. Stewart was a fine man and a fine employer. We are all saddened by his loss.
Gay, Whitney, and Amanda, it is with smiles and joy that i remember our wonderful BVI vacations, dinner with great friends and conversation, trips and so many happy times. May God’s peace be with you and may your memories always bring you comfort.
Dear Gay and family,
My heart goes out to you and you will be in my thoughts. I know that Stewart will be missed greatly but know that you will cherish all the wonderful memories you made together.
with sympathy, Susan Kinney Gill
Gay, I’m so sorry for your loss.I too lost my husband,David Sellers, way too soon. We have always thought very highly of you both.
My favorite memory of Stewart is the time he and Danny Sellers decided to move the sailboat they shared from the beach to home. They forgot to take the route that required them not to go under any overpasses. I’d love to have a picture of the mess they left on the highway when that mast hit the first overpass on the way home. I still laugh at that memory.
I’ll be praying for you and your family in these weeks to come.
Gay:
The funeral service for Stewart was heart-warming. The Western North Carolina Community and especially Asheville will miss him. I treasured having Stewart as a friend for over 30 years. My prayer is that the Holy Spirit will give you peace and protect you and your family in the years to come.
Your friend,
Glenn W. Wilcox,, Sr.
Stewart will be greatly missed. I was honored to have met him.
My condolences and best wishes to the Coleman family. Thomas George
My heart is with you.
My heart is with you.
Dear Gay,
Love and condolences to you and your family.
Pat and Charlie O’Cain
Richard & Family, I am very sorry for your loss. Steward was a fine man. I feel fortunate to be able to call you both FRIENDS.
My thoughts and prayers are with you these days.
I lost my Mother back in August, during her service the Pastor looked at us (the Family) and asked; ‘would you bring her back?’ As a Christian, those words have been the most comforting to me since.
I wish you all the best and if I can do anything, please let me know.
Sincerely:
Phil Flack
Gay,I knew him even before you and admired him always. He will be missed by many – what a legacy to leave to the family he loved. And for you and your family, the words of poet John O’Donohue, ‘To Bless the Space Between Us’: ‘Though we need to weep your loss, You dwell in that safe place in our hearts where no storm or night or pain can reach you. Your love was like the dawn brightening our lives, awakening beneath the dark a further adventure of color. The sound of your voice found for us a new music that brightened everything. Whatever you enfolded in your gaze quickened in the joy of its being; you placed smiles like flowers on the alter of the heart. Your mind always sparkled with wonder at things. Though your days here were brief, your spirit was alive, awake, complete.’ May you, Gay, and your family find abiding peace and continue to enter each day with a generous heart,serving the call of courage and love as he did.
DEAR TOMMY,
I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR OF YOUR BROTHER’S PASSING. I,TOO,LOST MY OLDER BROTHER WHEN HE WAS STILL QUITE YOUNG.
PLEASE FIND PEACE IN KNOWING THAT GOD IS WITH US IN ALL THINGS.
OUR HEARTS GO OUT TO YOU AND TO YOUR DEAR FAMILY.
DAVID AND BARBARA KING
AND
ALL FRIENDS AT MOTOR PARTS OF ASHEVILLE
DEAR GAY,
I AM SO SADDENED TO HEAR OF STEWART’S PASSING. YOU AND STEWART WERE A TERRIFIC COUPLE — WE LITTLE SOPHOMORES IDOLIZED YOU BOTH. STEWART CERTAINLY SHOWED HOW SMART HE WAS WHEN HE MARRIED YOU.
PLEASE BE ASSURED THAT LOVE
IS ETERNAL. WE MAY LOOK FORWARD TO ETERNITY WITH GOD AND WITH ALL OUR LOVED ONES.
DAVID AND I SEND OUR LOVE AND PRAYERS TO YOU, TO BEAUTIFUL WHITNEY,AND TO ALL THE COLEMAN FAMILY.
SINCERELY,
BARBARA AYERS-KING