Vernice D. Coleman, 74, of Sanford, FL (formerly from Detroit, MI) passed away September 29, 2020.

Vernice Deaner Duckworth, the only child of the late Lillie Mae (Duckworth) Neal and Mottque “Dean” Deaner, was born on July 15, 1946 in Neelyville, Missouri. Vernice was an avid reader who often reminisced that books were her closest friends as a child.

Vernice moved to Michigan with her mother at a young age. Though they would often visit Missouri, Vernice spent most of her life in Michigan, moving from Saginaw to Detroit in the early 1980’s. Vernice moved to Florida in 2008 where she resided until her passing.

In 1963, Vernice Deaner Duckworth became Vernice Deaner Coleman after marrying Roger Coleman, Sr (deceased). The two divorced in 1971 and Vernice never remarried.

Vernice cared deeply for her children and fought to provide for them while pursuing her own goals. Although she did not finish high school, she completed her GED and went on to study nursing. During her nearly 40-year career as a Licensed Practical Nurse, Vernice demonstrated a heart for helping others and always advocated on behalf of her patients.

Vernice enjoyed all genres of music from Tupac to Bonnie Raitt to Andrea Bocelli. One of her favorite concert moments was having flowers delivered to the incomparable Patti LaBelle as she performed on stage. Vernice’s favorite hobby was crocheting afghans (blankets) for family and friends. Her second favorite hobby was a close tie between playing casino games and purchasing yarn to make more blankets!

Vernice died unexpectedly, but peacefully, in her sleep on September 29, 2020. She will be forever loved and forever missed.

Vernice leaves to cherish her memory four children: Kalvin (Patricia) Deaner, Roger (Geneva) Coleman, Jr., Diedra Coleman-McClerkin and Barbara Coleman-Foster. Additionally, she is survived by thirteen grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren who adore her. She was preceded in death by one grandchild and one great-grandchild.