Gladys Booker Coleman

Gladys Booker Coleman was born on October 30, 1945, in Amelia, Virginia, to her loving parents, the late James Edward Booker and Ruth Harper Booker. On Tuesday, October 28, 2025, the gates of Heaven opened, and she entered into the glory of the Lord. She was welcomed into eternal rest by her first husband and the father of her children, Douglas Bracey, her beloved parents, and many cherished relatives who had gone before her to welcome her home. Gladys received her early education at Oak Grove Elementary School in Mansboro, VA, and went on to graduate from Russell Grove High School in 1963. During her school years, she was an enthusiastic member of the 4-H Club and proudly served as a cheerleader, showcasing her vibrant spirit and love for community. She gave her life to Christ at an early age and was baptized at Manassa Hill Baptist Church, where she remained a devoted and faithful member, joyfully serving in the church choir. As her Christian journey continued, she later united with Fifth Street Baptist Church, where she served faithfully on the Usher Board and remained an active and dedicated member for many years. Her lifelong ambition was to become a businesswoman after completing high school, which led her to begin working at DMV on Broad Street. She later built a rewarding career at MCV Hospital’s Nelson Clinic, serving in the Audiology Department as a speech pathologist, where she helped patients with their hearing implants. On August 6, 1966, she married the late Douglas Bracey of Lawrenceville, VA, and to this union, Douglas Keith Bracey and Kisha Monta Bracey were born. They were married for 28 years until his eternal rest. After much prayer and reflection, she chose to continue her education at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College in Richmond, VA, where she earned an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science, graduating with honors, Cum Laude. She had a deep love for celebrating and decorating during the holidays, with Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas being her absolute favorites. A proud Founding Member of the Three Fountains North Civic Association, she served faithfully for many years, dedicating herself to community improvement and neighborhood beautification. Blessed with many gifts and talents, Gladys was also a licensed beautician who joyfully styled the hair of family and friends in her home. On September 17, 2006, she united in marriage with Dr. John Wesley Coleman of Petersburg, VA. Through this union, she embraced her role as First Lady of Good News Baptist Church, where she faithfully served in many capacities, contributing to the church’s quarterly newsletter, singing in the choir, participating in the ladies’ fellowship, and lovingly enhancing the beauty and warmth of the sanctuary. Outside of church activities, they loved to travel, shop, and dine at various restaurants. Dr. John Coleman was a devoted husband and caregiver. She leaves to cherish her memory and continue her legacy of love and faith her devoted husband of 19 years, Dr. John Wesley Coleman; two loving children, Douglas Keith Bracey (Amanda) and Kisha Monta Christian (Corey); and one stepdaughter, Terri L. Gerald (Jacob). Gladys is also survived by four cherished sisters, Lucy Jackson of Amelia, VA, Rose Porter of Chesterfield, VA, Ruth Ann Barner of Henrico, VA, and Margaret Ross (McKinley) of Midlothian, VA, and two devoted brothers, James Booker Jr. (Viola) and Franklin Booker (Denise), both of Amelia, VA; two sisters-in-law - Ms. Doris L. Coleman and Mrs. Ernestine C. Newsome, and three brothers-in-law - Dea. James E. Coleman (Shirley), Mr. Robert E. Coleman, and Mr. David R. Coleman. She also leaves behind two beloved aunts, Rev. Addie Holloway of Portsmouth, VA, and Laura Anderson (Ray) of Blackstone, VA, five precious grandchildren, one devoted goddaughter, Cynthia Porter-Moore (Jack), six caring nieces, and three caring nephews. Her memory will also be treasured by a host of other relatives, cousins, neighbors, and dear friends, including Revs. Anthony and Linda Pearson, Maxine Coleman, Bessie Worsham-Johnson, Bessie-Creighton Hawks, Emily Carter, and Angelyn Poe, all of whom loved her deeply.

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Gladys Booker Coleman

October 30, 1945 - October 28, 2025