Irma Jean McIntosh Coleman

Irma Jean McIntosh Coleman: A Life of Service, Love, and Legacy On December 16th, 2024, the Lord called home Irma Jean McIntosh Coleman, a remarkable woman whose vibrant spirit, trailblazing contributions, and deep love for family and community have left an indelible mark on all who knew her. At the age of 86, Irma Jean was welcomed into heaven, where she was reunited with her beloved parents, Laura Celesta McIntosh and Prince Joseph McIntosh, and her dearly missed brother, Prince Joseph Jr. Born on September 17, 1938, in Jacksonville, Florida, Irma's life was one of purpose and passion from the start. A proud alumna of Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University), she earned a degree in education in 1961, a journey that would lay the foundation for a career dedicated to uplifting others. Irma was deeply inspired by her hero and friend, forerunner and pioneer, Mary McCloud Bethune, but it was her own exceptional talents as an educator that caught the attention of a superintendent all the way from Phoenix, Arizona, who hired her immediately upon graduation. It was in Phoenix that she met and married Austin H. Coleman, and together they welcomed their son, Austin H. Coleman II and daughter, Sonja Celeste Coleman. The family eventually made their home in Minneapolis, MN, where Irma and Austin added their third child, Laurie Denise Coleman, to the family, and where Irma earned her Masters and Education Specialist degrees from St. Thomas University. Irma's professional and personal life would become a testament to her unwavering commitment to education, equity, and community service. She made history as the first African American teacher and later as the first African American principal in the Bloomington Public Schools, where her influence shaped generations of students. Irma's excellence did not go unnoticed. Her work, intelligence, and radiant personality (always complemented by her impeccable style - regal outfits, elegant hats, and furs) caught the attention of Governor Arne Carlson, who appointed her as the Assistant Commissioner of Education for the Minnesota Department of Children, Families, and Learning. In this position, she became a beacon for educational progress, leaving an imprint on the learning experiences of countless children across Minnesota. Irma was also honored with the prestigious Bush Educational Fellowship, which included an exclusive invitation to the White House, where she had the privilege of meeting President Bill Clinton. Irma's impact did not stop there. After completing her work for the governor, she became a principal at two more schools in Minneapolis, she touched the lives of hundreds of young people, many of whom became lifelong friends. Even after retiring from her position as principal, Irma's passion for education continued. She ran for and won a seat on the Hopkins Public School Board, a position she held for two terms, with her pride and joy in seeing her eldest grandson, Princeton, attend the very schools she worked to improve. After stepping down from the school board in 2019, she redirected her boundless energy to church and community pursuits, always with a heart full of love for others. Irma leaves behind a family who adored her and a community that will forever cherish her. She is survived by her sister, Lorraine (Harvey) McIntosh Witherspoon and her loving children: Austin (Melissa), Celeste (Adefola), and Laurie, as well as her eight grandchildren: Princeton, Felecia, Elisha (Tristhen), Isaiah, Sophia, Josiah, Gabriella ("Gigi"), and Isabella, all of whom were the light of her life and the subject of endless pride and joy. Irma's legacy is one of unwavering devotion, boundless love, and deep faith. Her roots in the AME Church ran deep, and her commitment to St. Peter's AME was evident in the many roles she embraced-serving multiple terms as a Trustee, as President of the Grant Missionary Society, and as Director of the Young People's Department (YPD). She was a guiding presence in the church, a Godmother to many who walked through its doors. Irma's influence extended far beyond her church family; she was honored with a Golden Life Membership in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and a Life Membership in Jack & Jill of America, where she served as President of both local chapters. Her passion for civic engagement was demonstrated through her work with the League of Women Voters, where she encouraged students to register to vote, and as a dedicated poll worker during numerous elections. Irma's contributions to education, community leadership, and the church earned her a plethora of awards, evidence of her tireless commitment to making the world a better place. Irma was more than an educator; she was a mentor, a leader, a gatherer, a friend, and most of all, a beloved mother and grandmother. Her warmth, wisdom, and love will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. We honor her beautiful life with deep gratitude, knowing that her spirit will live on in every life she touched. Irma Jean McIntosh Coleman was a beacon of light during her time on earth, and now she shines with brilliance as she beholds her Lord, her Savior, Jesus Christ!

Tributes

Irma Jean McIntosh Coleman

September 17, 1938 - December 16, 2024

Tributes

Irma Jean McIntosh Coleman

September 17, 1938 - December 16, 2024

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