
07/27/2025
Joan Coleman Wooldridge peacefully departed this life on Friday, July 25th, 2025, embarking on her eternal journey with her Lord and Savior. She is now joyfully reunited with her beloved husband, Gary, and all those who have gone before her. Joan's radiant smile and remarkable kindness left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her, and we are profoundly grateful for the cherished moments we shared.
Born on November 12, 1954, in Appomattox, Virginia, Joan Marie Coleman was the daughter of loving parents Kyle and Roberta Coleman. She graduated from Appomattox County High School and later earned her nursing degree from the University of Virginia. As a cardiac rehabilitation nurse, Joan dedicated her career to positively influencing the recovery of countless individuals.
A devoted member of Heritage Baptist Church, Joan shared her beautiful voice in the choir, embodying her faith through acts of love and support for her family, particularly her parents. Her incredible ability to make everyone feel valued was evident in her thoughtful gestures, including never forgetting a birthday. Joan's profound love was particularly noticeable in her unwavering support for her husband, Gary, who faced the challenges of a rare form of muscular dystrophy. Their relationship was a model of mutual respect and joy, radiating laughter and love even in difficult times.
In her cherished role as “Nanny” for the past eight years, Joan found immense joy in caring for her adored grandson, Lawson. Their home was filled with laughter and adventure, complete with a room overflowing with Legos, creating a joyful haven.
Her granddaughter, Kayla, was especially close to her and credits her for helping shape the woman she is today. Their bond was full of love, laughter, and many cherished memories.
Joan will be deeply missed by her son, Eric, whose fun-loving spirit and appreciation for her were immense, along with his wife, Mindy, and their daughter, Kayla.
Her daughter, Lauren Morris, lovingly reciprocated her mother's devotion, ensuring she had everything she needed throughout her battle with cancer, supported by her fiancé, Joey Womack, and their children, Finlee and Annalise, as well as Lawson, who cherished his “Nanny.”
Joan's brother, Warren Coleman, whose warm embraces provided her strength, along with his wife, Judi, will carry her memory in their hearts. Her nephews, Kyle (Melissa) Coleman and David (Laura) Coleman, and niece, Katie (Dean) Newman, along with numerous great-nephews and great-nieces, will always hold their sweet Aunt Joan dear.
The many friends who surrounded Joan during her final years exemplify the Christ-centered connections she fostered. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who provided meals, transportation, and compassionate care during this time, with special thanks to dear friends Beckie, Susan, Gail, and Melinda for their unwavering love and support.
Finally, the family is immensely thankful to the healthcare professionals who provided exemplary care to Joan, particularly the dedicated nurses and physicians at the University of Virginia Hospital and cancer center in Charlottesville. Special recognition goes to Nurse Navigator Stacy at Pearson Cancer Center and Amanda Bruffy for their commitment during Joan's cancer journey.
A funeral will be held at 2 pm, Saturday, August 2nd, 2025, at Heritage Baptist Church, officiated by Pastor Rod Kidd. Burial will be held at 4 pm in Evergreen Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 pm on Friday, August 1st, 2025, at Heritage Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Greater Virginia MDA, 1503 Santa Rose Road, Suite 120, Richmond, VA, 23229.
Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family. An online condolence may be sent by visiting www.robinsonfuneral.com.