Floyd Winston Coleman Jr. embodied the essence of embracing life’s natural course in Elmira.
Born on March 21st, 1924, Coleman Jr. was the eldest among four siblings, including Green Pastures and Howard Coleman.
Having graduated from Elmira Free Academy, Coleman was renowned for his resilience, cleverness, and dedication to serving others. His service extended to the U.S. Navy during WWII from 1943 to 1946, where he achieved the rank of Second-Class Petty Officer. Notably, he ranked fifth in fitness among one hundred and thirty-eight men in his unit.
Upon his return from Quonset Point, Rhode Island, Coleman crossed paths with his future wife, Sarah Jackson-Coleman. Their union blessed them with three children. Coleman’s professional journey encompassed 26 years at Remington Rand and a subsequent 15-year tenure at the Elmira Psychiatric Center, culminating in his retirement.
Post-retirement, Coleman remained actively involved in nurturing his family and supporting the esteemed Elks Club. As a distinguished member of New York’s Improved Benevolent and Pro-Justice Order of the Queen City Elks Lodge No. 174, he held the esteemed position of the longest-serving Grand District Deputy for Central New York. Coleman’s steadfast commitment garnered him numerous awards and recognitions.
Even at the age of 99, Coleman independently drove to the National Elks Convention in Baltimore, Maryland, where he was acknowledged as the eldest active member of the National Improved Benevolent and Protective Order Elks of the World.
In addition to his community engagements, Coleman undertook part-time roles with the U.S. Census Bureau and Barton’s Senior Facility over several years.
Renowned for his remarkable memory, often likened to that of an elephant, Coleman cherished reflecting on the various chapters of his life’s narrative. His peaceful passing on January 3rd, 2024, left behind a profound legacy characterized by integrity, benevolence, and unwavering resolve.
His notable presence extended to the documentary 300 Miles to Freedom, Recording the Life of John Jones, slated for integration into the Elmira Public School System curriculum. This initiative aims to enlighten students on a significant segment of the underground railroad history.
Coleman found solace in reading, sports, and fervently supporting his favorite teams: the Buffalo Bills, the New York Knicks, and the Syracuse Orange. He remained a steadfast advocate for the black community through various organizations. Additionally, he cherished Green Pastures, a business owned by his brother Howard, and frequented The Rye Bar to revel in the melodious tunes of Jazz.
An active member of the Elmira-Corning Branch of the NAACP, Coleman was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his unwavering dedication. He actively participated in SUNY Corning Community College’s Black History Month events and contributed as a panelist for the college’s “Black History in Elmira” panel.
Coleman’s legacy is deeply rooted in his unyielding spirit and relentless commitment to his family and community. Notably, June 24th was proclaimed Winston Coleman Day in the Elmira Community in 2023, commemorating his selfless contributions over the years.