On Wednesday, May 18, 2022, Ronald O’Neal Coggins, loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, soon-to-be great grandfather, and servant of Jesus Christ, passed away peacefully and escaped this mortal realm to complete his path to Heaven at age 73.
On March 22, 1949, Ron was born to Albert and Gladys Coggins in Lagrange, Ga., and grew up in Marietta, Ga. On Dec. 4, 1972, he married the love of his life of more than 50 years, Sherelyn Coggins of Peculiar. He is survived by his wife Sherelyn, three children, Layne, Kerrie and Amy; grandchildren, Cody, Gage, Devon, Madison, Megan, Milayna, Shaylin, Mason; and brother Kenny Coggins.
Ronald joined the Air Force and served our country as a young man. He was an umpire, coach, mentor, and overall jokester. After the military, he worked at General Motors for a decade with some small jobs in between but finally found himself in what seemed to suit him best, the automotive business. He thrived in the car business, and his gift of gab and infectious charm allowed him to smile often and meet new people, which Ron loved.
Ron lived a legacy as a father who prayed for his children every day, taught by example and discussion. He was a friend to many, and one quote from a family friend said it all.
“Anyone who ever met your dad never forgot him”. He was big and boastful and his smile could fill a room. He could become your friend in minutes of meeting anyone. He was stern and tough and would tell you to suck it up or rub some dirt on it. He would say how hard it was walking to school uphill both ways in a blizzard (Yes, he lived in Georgia). Ron was always about his family. Ask any of his children or grandchildren, and they were all his favorite. He was there with a stern word when his children were out of line, there with words of encouragement, wisdom, and comfort when needed. He would urge everyone to do their best, love their family, make something out of their lives, and never stop smiling.
Following his wishes, there will not be a funeral but a celebration of life where everyone can talk and reminisce about how fantastic he was and eat all the food he loved.
We are pretty sure he created the nickname “Big Sexy” for himself, but it seemed to stick for decades! He was always very generous and would give you the shirt off his back. At the same time, if he owes you a beer or a shot of whiskey and if you can find him in Heaven, he will gladly let you buy him another.
He loved to drive and see the world around him.
His regrets are few... we assume they include eating a whole box of Choco Gels behind a Piggy Wigley before dinner at his father’s house in Alabama. Also, not training his Chihuahuas to detect cancer, and that there is no video existence of his prowess with a hammer or in the bedroom.
We ask that you each celebrate Ronnie’s life in your own way. Raising a glass of their favorite drink in his memory would be appropriate.
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to help the family with medical expenses. Link to GoFundMe page is https://gofund.me/0aa96394.
If attending the Celebration of Life, please dress casually in bright colors to represent Ronnie’s light. Black attire is not recommended.