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William H.
Coleman, Jr.
Nov 18, 1938 — Sep 26, 2026
North Kingstown, formerly Glocester
Saturday
St. Bernard Church
Starts at 11:00 am (Eastern time)
Saturday
The Quonset Tavern By The Green
Starts at 12:00 pm (Eastern time)
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William (“Bill”) H. Coleman, Jr., of North Kingstown, Rhode Island, formerly of Glocester, Rhode Island, and Beverly Hills, Florida. A cherished son, loving husband, devoted father, and beloved grandfather. Bill’s courageous battle with cancer came to an end on September 26, 2026, surrounded by family who loved him deeply. Born on November 18, 1938, he lived a life defined by quiet strength, unwavering loyalty, and a deep devotion to those he cared for.
Bill was a proud husband to his beloved wife, Mary (Turbridy), and devoted father of his three children: Marilyn Salzman (John) of Louisville, Colorado, and their son Michael of Boston, Massachusetts; James Coleman (Amy) of North Kingstown, Rhode Island, and their children Benjamin and Lauren; and Karen Greene (Jonathan) of Charlestown, Rhode Island, and their daughter Ella. His proudest accomplishment was his adored grandchildren, and nothing brought him greater joy than spending summers with them at the family beach house on Watchaug Pond. His love for his family was steady, constant, and deeply felt.
He was the son of the late William H. Coleman and Antoinette Latour Coleman, and was predeceased by his sister, Natalie Marie (Coleman) Vukic.
Bill graduated from North Providence High School and went on to begin a long and respected career in commercial plumbing. He worked for more than 35 years through Union Local 28 and 51 with Thomas Olean and Sons, a plumbing and heating company, where he served as a trusted commercial foreman. After retirement, he founded his own consulting firm, working directly with Stop & Shop during their expansion throughout the Northeast—an accomplishment he took great pride in. His work ethic, leadership, and steady presence earned him deep trust across the industry.
During his years in Rhode Island, Bill was a proud and active member of Cranston Fish & Game, serving on its Executive Board for many years. He also dedicated his time to coaching with the Glocester Youth Hockey Association, where he mentored and encouraged young players both on and off the ice. These pursuits reflected his love of the outdoors, his generous spirit, and the strong sense of community and friendships he cultivated throughout his life.
When Bill later moved to Florida, he continued his lifelong commitment to service. For more than 10 years, he volunteered with the Citrus County Sheriff’s Department, patrolling the Beverly Hills community with dedication and pride, always committed to keeping neighborhoods safe.
Outside of work, Bill was a man of many talents and passions. He loved fishing, hunting, and spending quiet hours wood carving and woodworking. He found joy in boating, had a keen eye for photography, a steady hand for fly tying, and the heart of an artist. He also enjoyed hiking and biking, embracing the outdoors in every season. He was someone who could fix anything—always ready with a tool in hand (or in his pocket) and the practical skill to tackle any task.
He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren, who will forever carry his love and legacy forward.
Bill’s funeral will be on Saturday, October 10, 2026, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM in St. Bernard Church, 275 Tower Hill Rd, North Kingstown.
All are welcome to participate in a Celebration of Life Reception immediately following mass at The Quonset Tavern By The Green, 615 Callahan Rd, North Kingstown.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, with heartfelt thanks for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Bill and our family. https://www.dana-farber.org. Donations may also be made to the Brown University Health Cancer Institute, in deep appreciation for their dedicated and gentle support at the end of his illness. https://www.brownhealth.org.
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