Burnett “Burnie” Coats Jr. was born Nov. 9, 1949, in Tuscaloosa, to the late Burnett Coats Sr. and Lillie Dora Coats. He peacefully departed this life July 8.
He gave his life to Christ at an early age at Reynolds Chapel Church in Newbern. He was a man of integrity, compassion, and dedication who made a lasting impact on everyone blessed to know him. He was remembered for his warm sense of humor, his ability to brighten a room, and the happiness he shared through genuine moments with family and friends.
Burnie proudly dedicated 28 years of honorable service to the United States Army, where he achieved the rank of master sergeant. After retiring from the Army, he continued his service by working for the federal government for the remainder of his professional life.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Juanita Boykins and Sylvia Coats.
He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Mi Kyong “Tina” Coats; his children, Corey Burnett Coats, Darin James Coats, and Jeanna Burnett Coats; his siblings, Mary Jo Wiggins, Mable Woodward, Deborah McLaughlin, Bernard Coats (Laurice Coats), Diane Ward, Steven Coats (Patricia Coats), and Christopher Coats; a special nephew, Michael Coats, who was raised by his parents; a special cousin/brother, Johnny Coats; along with extended family members, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Funeral services were held Saturday, July 18, at 1 p.m. at Reynolds Chapel Church, County Road 48, Newbern, with Rev. Roger Milton officiating.
