Monte Leon Coleman

Monte Coleman, a beloved man of God, husband, father, athlete and coach, peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home on April 26, 2026.

Born on November 4, 1957 in Pine Bluff, AR, Monte lived a life defined by strength, discipline, and unwavering faith. He attended Union Baptist Church where he gave his life to Christ at an early age. He walked on at the University of Central Arkansas, where his brother Sam played, after graduating from Pine Bluff High School in 1975. He started as a safety, helping the Bears reach the 1976 National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics championship game and later went on to become the first UCA Bear to be drafted into the NFL.  

He rose to national prominence as a linebacker for the Washington Redskins where he dedicated 16 remarkable seasons. During his distinguished career, Monte was a key contributor to a championship era, playing in four Super Bowls and winning three establishing himself as one of the most dependable and resilient players of his time. 

Known throughout the NFL as “Superman”, Monte never sought the spotlight, yet his presence was deeply felt by teammates, coaches, and fans alike. He was respected for his consistency, toughness, and quiet leadership—qualities that made him a cornerstone of every team he served.

Following his NFL career, Monte was active at Christ Fellowship Church in Herndon, VA. He continued to live a life of purpose and service and later returned back to his home town in Pine Bluff, AR. There, he joined the UAPB football program where he eventually made his way to Head Coach and led the team to the 2012 SWAC Championship, the first victory in the history of the school. 

He served in later years as the executive director of S.O.A.R., which focuses on equipping students and building character both in the classroom and in life.   

While coaching, he faithfully served as an Assistant Pastor at Pine Bluff First Assembly, dedicating his life to ministry, mentorship, and sharing the Word of God. His faith was not merely spoken—it was lived daily and demonstrated through his actions.

His personal passions included family time, fishing, hunting and golfing. He even owned a bait and tackle shop in Virginia called “Monte Coleman’s I’d Rather Be Fishing.”  

Monte was preceded in death by his parents, John Coleman and Jettie Mae Wiseman, his brother, Sam Coleman and brother-in-law Greg Carter. 

He leaves to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy: his devoted wife of 38 years, Yvette Coleman; his five children; Corey Coleman, Londie Coleman, Jasmine Ford (Terrence), Kyndall White (Gene), Kyle Coleman (Jamie). His ten grandchildren: Tavian, Vyctoria, Jace, Jaelle, Jensen, Karter, Zyra, Kamren, Kash and Mila; his siblings: Wayne Coleman (Janice), Paulette McDonald (Wyvonne), Cedric Coleman (Michelle), Bernard Coleman (Sheila), Lorne; Sister in laws: Cassandra Coleman, Aneva Carter; Brother-in-law Brian Morton (Kim). And a host of Aunts, Uncles, Nieces, Nephews, Extended Family, Dear Friends and the countless lives he impacted on and off the field. 

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 12 PM at First Assembly in Pine Bluff, AK.  Live steam link https://www.youtube.com/live/ZTK_ookidPg

Family will receive friends on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 10am until 11 am with a memorial service starting at 11 am at Grace Covenant Church, 4600 Brookfield Corporate Drive, Chantilly, VA, 20151. 

Services will be streamed at 11 am https://www.gracecov.org/monte/

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