Bernice Iantha Coleman (Shaver)

Bernice Iantha Coleman, a woman of faith, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 20, 2021. She was 92. Bernice was born to Earl and Bessie Shaver on April 15, 1929 in Cameron, Missouri.

Bernice lived most of her childhood in Cameron, Missouri.
When she graduated from high school in 1947 she attended North West Missouri State for secretarial training. It is here she met the love of her life, Melvin Coleman. They were married in 1950 and moved to Maryville, Mo where Melvin was a teacher. She worked for Citizens State Bank while living there. In 1952, she moved to Lexington, Mo and in 1955 they moved to Independence, Mo where she lived until 2019. The past two years she has lived in Kansas City in an assisted living community.

Bernice was a hard worker and held many jobs but perhaps one of her favorites was working at the Truman Library in Independence. She enjoyed visiting with people. Bernice was a secretary for the Independence School District for many years before starting her career with Riordan Sales Company. She retired after 16 years with them. In her spare time Bernice enjoyed playing bridge, reading, volunteering her time with the Young Matrons and being with her family. She will be greatly missed.
Bernice is survived by her son, Doug Coleman (Dixie) and daughter, Susan Tope (Ron); grandchildren, Kalli Turner (Matt), Carly Bogaards (Jeff), Connor Coleman (Ana); great grandchildren, Emma Turner and Goldie Mae Coleman.
She’s preceded in death by her beloved husband, Melvin and sisters, Anna Parham and Lela Freeman.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, August 8th from 2-3pm at First Christian Church in Independence, Missouri with a memorial service following at 3pm. A private family graveside service was held at Cameron Memory Gardens.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the First Christian Church, 125 S Pleasant St, Independence, MO 64050.