Margaret Louise Coleman

Southern Shores, NC – It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Margaret Louise Coleman. Born on February 8, 1943, in Richmond, VA, Margaret left us unexpectedly on March 3, 2026, following emergency open-heart surgery. Her departure leaves a void, but her legacy of kindness and vibrant spirit will remain in our hearts.

Margaret is survived by Sue Messenheimer, and a loving family including Carrie Messenheimer, Jay Antonacci, and her grandchildren Morgan, Kiara and Carson Antonacci of Pt. Harbor, NC. Margaret was the daughter of the late Wilson S. Coleman, Sr. and Ruby Louise Dempsey Coleman. Margaret spent most of her youth living with and was greatly influenced by her Aunt Elsie Coleman Davis (Sydney). She shared love and memories with their daughters, Grace Henley (Pete) and Emma Lee Dudley (Herbert) and their families, especially Grace’s daughter Lori Rice. Margaret was beloved by her brother Wilson S. Coleman, Jr. (Eunice) niece Linda Baber (Chris) great niece/nephews Sarah, Chris, and Forrest; and nephew Craig W. Coleman (Melinda) and great nephew/nieces Curtis and Suzan, all of Richmond, VA. Margaret’s generous actions and warm spirit continued through her life.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to Margaret’s care team at Norfolk Heart Hospital for their kindness and care following her surgery.

Immediately upon graduation from Freeman H.S., Margaret dedicated 30 years of service to C&P Telephone/AT&T. Her strong work ethic, attention to detail, and stellar performance in accounting studies at University of Richmond placed Margaret on track for upper management. During her career she was often a department manager, and she mastered internal auditing and corporate tax preparation. After retirement, Margaret moved to Southern Shores, NC in 1996, where she nurtured her beautiful gardens.

Margaret’s passion lay in her garden. She cultivated beautiful azaleas, hydrangeas, and numerous potted flowers. Her garden was not only her sanctuary but also a place where she cultivated friendships, sharing her gardening knowledge and propagated cuttings with others.

Another love she had was traveling, and she recently returned from a 10,000 mile trip out West and to Alberta, Canada, visiting numerous National and State Parks, a trip she had always wanted to take. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, the SPCA, or a charity of your choice, reflecting Margaret’s nurturing life and providing care to those who need it most.  Sue will host a private memorial gathering to celebrate Margaret’s life. Please share expressions of comfort at www.gallopfuneralservices.com Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.