Joan Coleman Welzant

JOAN COLEMAN WELZANT

June 5, 1938 — March 9, 2025

“How wonderful life is while you’re in the world.” — Elton John

Joan Pearl Coleman Welzant, 86, left this world peacefully holding the hands of her children on the morning of March 9, 2025. Born to John and Marie Coleman on June 5, 1938, in Baltimore, Maryland, she was the eldest of 9 children. Joan’s greatest joy in life was her family. On July 20, 1957 she pledged her love and heart to Navy sailor, Robert and thus began their life together and raising four wonderful children. Military life kept them on the move but eventually they settled and made Green Cove Springs, Florida home in 1965. Joan and Robert loved their small town and made many friends and memories.

Joan was the ultimate mother and made many sacrifices for her family without complaint. She was indeed a moral compass, always kind, honest and generous, which was something important she instilled in her children.

Joan loved her family and friends with the ferocity of a mother bear. She was giving to a fault, but was never afraid to vocalize anything she thought someone needed to hear, especially if that someone was one of her children. She was the best Grandma/Boosha to her grandchildren, great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren and put them above all. She loved to be surrounded by family, and never ran out of love to share, no matter how the family continued to expand. Joan fully believed that children and animals were beyond precious and her love for both was well-known by all.

She enjoyed music of all kinds but had a fondness for Elton John and would watch “Rocketman” at every chance. The woman was known for her sweet tooth-- cake for breakfast and a Dreamette banana split in the evening was not an uncommon occurrence. The family loved her cooking and baking skills and will cherish the Sunday family breakfasts and dinners they shared.

As we say goodbye to Joan, we celebrate the life of a woman who was a beacon of kindness and love. Her legacy is one of unwavering devotion to her family, a testament to the beautiful life she lived, and the countless lives she touched. Her memory will be treasured forever, as we hold her close in our hearts and remember the light she brought into this world.

Joan was preceded in death by; her husband, Robert Welzant, father and mother, John & Marie Coleman, beloved in-laws, Roman and Genevieve Welzant, brothers, John and Charles (Buck) Coleman and son-in-law, Randall Pulliam.

Joan’s memory will be cherished and kept alive by her children; Michael Welzant, Mary Bauer (Greg), Robin Pulliam (Charles) and Linda Welzant. Sister, Linda Thiemeyer and brothers, Ron, David, Billy, Richard and Melvin Coleman. Grandchildren; Sarah Ganion (Kevin), Greg Bauer (Misty), Jeremy Bauer, Amanda Ahearn (Thomas) Cameron Pulliam (Lauren) and Megan Welzant. And many great and great, great grandchildren and friends.

Joan's passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. Her laughter, her love of life, and her ability to make everyone feel cherished will be sorely missed and never forgotten.

Join us in celebrating Joan’s life at 3:00 p.m., Thursday, March 27, 2025, in the Broadus-Raines Chapel with dinner immediately following at her home.

‍Flowers will be accepted, or memorial contributions may be made to Clay Humane by visiting www.clayhumane.org