In Remembrance: Dr. Thomas L. Coleman, Public Servant, Veteran, and Pillar of DeKalb County (1945–2026)

DeKalb Couty, GA – The Metro Atlanta community and Spotlight South Cobb News joins DeKalb County in mourning the loss of Dr. Thomas L. Coleman, a respected public servant, military veteran, and civic leader who dedicated his life to service. Dr. Coleman passed away on Jan. 31, 2026, leaving behind a legacy defined by integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to community.

A retired United States Air Force officer and Vietnam veteran, Dr. Coleman served his country for more than 25 years before continuing his service here at home in Georgia. Following his military career, he spent more than a decade with the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice, where he rose to serve as Chief Deputy Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner of the Programs, Education and Youth Development Division—roles that allowed him to shape policy and expand opportunity for young people across the state.

Dr. Coleman’s commitment to public service also included his tenure as Chief of Staff to former DeKalb County Chief Executive Officer Burrell Ellis, a period during which colleagues recall his steady leadership, deep institutional knowledge, and ability to guide complex government operations with both discipline and empathy.

Beyond county government, Dr. Coleman served as Director of the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety and spent more than a decade as a commissioner with the DeKalb County Housing Authority and the Housing Development Corporation of DeKalb County. He also contributed his expertise as a board member of the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice and as vice chair of the Georgia Piedmont Technical College Board of Directors. His civic engagement extended to education, housing, youth development, and public safety, including his role as chair of Georgia’s 4th Congressional District Congressional Black Caucus Scholarship Committee.

His lifetime of service earned widespread recognition. In 2017, he was named a DeKalb County History Maker and was honored again in 2026 by the DeKalb County Solicitor-General’s Office. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022 during the administration of Joe Biden, and in 2023, he was presented with the Nathaniel Mosby Humanitarian Award during DeKalb County’s Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Celebration of Service. That same year, Congressman Hank Johnson recognized Dr. Coleman as a “Beacon of Light,” honoring his impact as one of the region’s unsung community leaders.

Dr. Coleman’s academic achievements reflected his belief in lifelong learning. He earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Georgia State University, a master’s degree in public administration from Central Michigan University, and a doctoral degree in Higher Education Administration from Clark Atlanta University.

In a statement, Solicitor-General Donna Coleman-Stribling and her brother, Jeffrey Coleman, reflected on their father’s life: “With heavy hearts, we share that our beloved father, Dr. Thomas L. Coleman, passed away peacefully. ‘The memory of the righteous is a blessing.’ — Proverbs 10:7. Our father lived a life defined by service, integrity, and love for his family and community. From his military service to his work with the Department of Juvenile Justice and his community leadership, he was deeply committed to helping others and leaving every place better than he found it. The values he instilled in us—faith, discipline, compassion, and justice—shaped who we are, both personally and professionally. Any good we have been able to do in this world is a reflection of his guidance, sacrifice, and example.”

The family has expressed gratitude for the prayers, messages, and support they have received.

Publishers Note:

As Publisher for Spotlight South Cobb News, we extend our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Dr. Thomas L. Coleman on his passing. Dr. Coleman and I worked together during his service as Chief of Staff with DeKalb County. He was a strong and steady giant—leading with distinction, wisdom, and integrity. We worked closely to resolve complex issues and to support the CEO in governing the county with purpose and accountability. Dr. Coleman did not seek attention; he sought solutions, always guided by principle and a deep commitment to public service. His legacy is one of leadership, humility, and service to others. He leaves an indelible mark on DeKalb County and Metro Atlanta, and he will be deeply missed. God bless you, Dr. Coleman. Your life’s work will not be forgotten.
– Shelia Edwards, Publisher