Gilbert Louis Coleman

Gilbert Louis Coleman, 74, of Ashland, KY, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 28, 2026.

Mr. Coleman was born on February 5, 1952, in Ashland, KY, to the late Nathaniel Coleman and Ella Mae Westbrook Coleman. He was a beloved son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, Gilbert was preceded in death by his loving wife of eighteen years, Vanessa Coleman; a granddaughter, Tiannae Maree Segina; six brothers: Eugene, Jimmy, Dave, Marvin, Calvin, and Will Coleman; and three sisters: Elouise Mock, Christine Coleman, and Janet Coleman.

Mr. Coleman dedicated many years of his life to working for the Kentucky State Highway Department before continuing his career at the Ashland Plaza Hotel in Ashland, KY, where he worked as a chef. Cooking was more than a job to Gilbert; it was something he truly loved. He took great pride in preparing food and sharing it with family and friends.

Gilbert loved his family. He cherished the time he got to spend with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Gilbert was a member of First Baptist Church of Flatwoods, KY.

Gilbert leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory: his five daughters, Tammy (Kris) Whitt of Germantown, OH, Kimberly Caines of Ashland, KY, Valerie Coleman of Ashland, KY, Stephanie (Seth) Hicks of Ashland, KY, and Amanda (Paul) Hughes of Raceland, KY; one son, James (Kelli) Anderson of Greenup, KY; twenty-one grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; a sister, Jessie Coleman of Ashland, KY; a brother, John Coleman of Lexington, KY; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Though our hearts are heavy with the loss of Gilbert, we are grateful for the years, memories, laughter, love, and many lessons. His love of cooking, devotion to family and friends, and his unmistakable team spirit.

Rest peacefully, Gilbert. You will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

A funeral service will be held at 1 P.M. on Friday, September 4, 2026, at Bailey Family Funeral Home in Flatwoods, KY, with Pastor Jim Nichols and Deacon David Daniels officiating.

Visitation will be from 11 A.M. until the time of the service on Friday at the funeral home.

Condolences can be expressed at www.baileyfamilyfuneralhome.com.