A memorial service will be held for Johnie Van “John” Coffman, 2 p.m., Friday, May 24, at the former First Church of the Nazarene, 732 Union Church Rd, Brookhaven, MS.

John (79) of Bogue Chitto, MS went to his heavenly home on March 5th, 2024. He was born in Skiatook, OK on October 30, 1944, to Cleatus Van and Mavis McCoy Coffman.

He is preceded in death by his parents, baby sister, and daughter Amanda Trehern.

John was of Cherokee Heritage, which he proudly embraced. John was a faithful member of the Church of the Nazarene.

He is survived by his wife Connie Coffman. Also, he is survived by his children Jamie Asbury (George), Sherri McCaleb, Marvin Morrison, Christina Fairburn, Frank Saujon, 13 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

John served his country proudly in the Vietnam War in the Air Force as an M.P. (Military Police). After his return, he worked for the Dallas Police Department.

In 1968 he moved to the Mississippi Gulf Coast and served on the Gulfport Police Department as well as the Harrison County Sheriff's Department in many law enforcement capacities.

After leaving law enforcement, he started a security recovery business working for bank and finance companies across the country. He was an avid collector of oil, gas, and drink memorabilia. He loved telling his jokes to anyone who would listen. He also loved participating in car shows and attending Cruising the Coast in his 1989 Chevy C-10 Truck.

He will be sorely missed by his friends and loving family.