MICHELLE MARIA COATES

My name is Michelle M. Coates, and my life's journey began on July 22, 1943, when I was born to the late Lawrence and Geraldine (Matthews) Hogan in Washington, D.C. I was raised in a time when family, faith, and determination shaped the very foundation of who we were. I attended D.C. Public Schools, and though life responsibilities came early for me, I refused to let anything stand in the way of my growth. On April 18, 1973, I proudly earned my High School Equivalency Certificate-a milestone that represented perseverance, commitment, and hope. On Thursday, November 27, 2025, a day many know as Thanksgiving, I quietly chose to give thanks in my own way as I stepped peacefully into my eternal rest. God, in His perfect timing, carried me home in love. My story as a mother began in 1959, when God blessed me with my first daughter, Anita, my angel and the first great joy of my life. In 1964, I married William Augustus Jackson, a talented and renowned drummer and musician. With William, I welcomed my son, Thomas T. "Bootsie" Jackson, whose laughter and energy brought life to every room. In July 1982, I entered a new season when I married gospel singer Ralph Carroll Coates. Through that union, I welcomed my youngest daughter, Cheryta, my bright songbird who carried music and joy in her spirit. My children were my heartbeat, my motivation, and my most cherished treasures. Everything I worked for, prayed for, and hoped for was rooted in the love I had for them. My nurturing spirit extended beyond my household. What began as being lovingly known as "Aunt Shelly" blossomed into a full calling. I entered the world of early childhood education, where I spent more than 40 years teaching and caring for children at St. Margaret's, New Macedonia Daycare, Easter Seals, and other centers. Each child I encountered carried a piece of my heart. Teaching was not just what I did-it was who I was. It was ministry, purpose, and love in action. I lived a life filled with passion-passion for God, family, the arts, and education. I loved to sing, to perform, and to embrace creativity in all its forms. I believed deeply in giving back. Whether through charitable and volunteer work, spiritual service, or simply offering kindness, I made it my mission to touch lives with gentleness, warmth, and intention. Those who knew me describe me as vibrant, loving, strong, curious, spirited, and full of joy. I carried sunshine in my smile and strength in my presence. My faith anchored every season of my life. In the 1950s I attended the Holy Commandment 7th Day Pentecostal Church under Bishop Gamble. In 1970, I accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior and received the baptism of the Holy Spirit under Bishop Conway at the Holy Commandment Church of God 7th Day. In the 1980s, I attended the Holy Commandment Temple of God under Bishop Jones. On November 4, 2000, I joined Bethel Deliverance Outreach Ministries (BDOM) under Bishop Alonzo M. Walker Sr. There, I found purpose and family. I served as an Usher, a Children's Church Instructor, a member of the choir, a participant in theater productions, and ultimately as a member of the Mother's Board. Every role was an opportunity to love, serve, and walk out my faith. Anyone who knew me in church knew this-I was a praiser. I didn't need music, a crowd, or a moment. If the Spirit moved, I would cut a step anywhere, anytime. Praising God was my joy, my release, and my testimony, and I carried that praise with me everywhere I went. Today, I join my loved ones who transitioned before me-my parents, Lawrence and Geraldine, and my beloved husbands, William Jackson and Ralph Carroll Coates. And yet, my story continues in the hearts of those I leave behind. I am survived by my children Anita, Thomas, and Cheryta; my brother Timothy (Betty) Hogan; my grandchildren Zackary, Felisha, TJ, Imani, and Yardaan; my great-grandchildren Calieb and Marva; my great-great-grandchild, Emmerie; and a loving extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, relatives, and friends who shaped every chapter of my life. If you remember anything about me, let it be this: I loved deeply. I served faithfully. I lived with purpose. I believed in kindness, creativity, and the power of joy. And I never stopped trusting God. Though I have transitioned from labor to reward, my legacy remains in every life I touched, every child I taught, every song I sang, and every prayer I whispered. Love, Michelle aka.. "Aunt Shelly"

MICHELLE MARIA COATES

July 22, 1943 - November 27, 2025