Kenneth Wayne Coleman Sr., 57, of Dayton, Ohio passed away on Monday, January 26, 2026. Born on May 24, 1968, in Okinawa, Japan, he was the son of the late Reverend Dr. Joseph Lewis Coleman Sr. and Alma Joyce Coleman.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Joseph L. Coleman Jr.; and his sister, Angela Coleman.
A proud Buckeye, Kenneth attended The Ohio State University, where he played football wearing jersey number 92, earned a degree in Economics, and minored in Education. He was a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.
A talented athlete, Kenneth was a four-year member of the Ohio State football program, known for his quickness, strength, and agility. He appeared in more than 40 games and earned multiple starts along the defensive line. Prior to college, he was recognized as a First-Team All-Ohio defensive lineman and ranked among the nation’s top 100 senior players.
A follower of Christ and entrepreneur, Kenneth later earned a Master of Divinity and devoted his life to faith, leadership, and service. He founded Caught Up in Christ Church, where his passion for the gospel, worship, and teaching was evident. His faith was not only spoken — it was lived.
In 2018, Kenneth survived a devastating car accident that resulted in a traumatic brain injury and the loss of his eyesight. Doctors did not expect him to survive, but God had other plans. Kenneth often shared his powerful testimony of being restored to life and called back by God, a story that encouraged and strengthened many.
Kenneth’s joyful spirit was evident in everything he did, often summed up in his familiar response that he was always “rockin’ and rollin’,” a reflection of his unwavering positivity and steadfast faith. He will be remembered for his kindness, gentle spirit, generous heart, and his ability to uplift others through his words, his music, and his love for people.
He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years Stacey Coleman; his children, Brittany N. (Dana) Bradley, Brooke J. (Shaq) Whorton, Kenneth W. (Elizabeth) Coleman Jr., Caeara M. (Mikela) Coleman, Joshua R. Coleman, and Jordan B. Coleman; his brother, Kelvin Coleman (Taeko Coleman) ; his sister-in-law, Meshel L. Coleman; his nieces, Kandace M. Coleman, Ashley L. Coleman, Jasmine C. Coleman, Sheridan Coleman, and Luna Coleman; his grandchildren, Reign Bradley, Zuri Bradley, Zion Coleman, Zyhir Coleman, Zahire Coleman, and Arena Coleman; and a host of other family members, friends, and loved ones.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to support the care of Joshua, Kenneth’s son with special needs.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at Canaan Missionary Baptist Church (5191 Hoover Ave., Dayton, OH 45417). Funeral service will begin at 12:00 pm.
To share a memory of Kenneth or leave a special message for his family, please visit the Guestbook below.
Canaan Missionary Baptist Church
Canaan Missionary Baptist Church
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