Marion, Virginia

Cecil “Curtis” Coalson, age 68, passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2026 after celebrating one last bonfire at home with his family, just as he wanted.

Curtis was a devoted family man whose greatest pride and joy were his grandbabies, who lovingly gave him the name “Papaw.” It was a title he wore with tremendous pride, and there was nothing in this world he treasured more than his family. Curtis was a man who enjoyed the Southern way of life nestled in the mountains, whether it was admiring old trucks, spending time fishing, or simply sitting on the porch listening to the peaceful sounds of the pond. Above all, he enjoyed having his family together. One of his favorite traditions was hosting an annual bonfire around Halloween, where the children would dress up in their costumes, win prizes, and have something special to look forward to each year. Curtis was also a hardworking man who took great pride in providing for those he loved. He dedicated 43 years of service to General Dynamics, where he was affectionately known by his coworkers as “Gomez.” Throughout those years, he formed many friendships and was known for the same loyalty, dedication, and strong work ethic that he carried throughout his life. Perhaps one of the greatest stories of his life began when he was just 20 years old and met a young lady named Teresa in front of a library, thanks to a little help from his sister-in-law, Michelle. From that moment on, he never looked back. Their love story grew into 48 wonderful years of marriage, built on true love, faithfulness, and, as Teresa would tell you with a smile, “God's will!” Curtis leaves a lifetime of precious memories and a family who adored him. While his presence will be deeply missed, the love he gave will remain.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Graham and Virginia Blevins Coalson; brothers, Dan Graham Coalson and John Matthew Coalson; and granddaughter, Destiny Jade Coalson.

Curtis is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Teresa “Big Sis” Tuggle Coalson of Marion, VA; daughters, Kimberly Ann Coalson Foore and husband, David, of Rural Retreat, VA and Jennifer Wilkins; son, Curtis Ray Coalson and wife, Tasha, of Marion, VA; brothers, Robert “James” Coalson of Marion, VA, Johnny Wayne Coalson and wife, Melissa, of Glade Spring, VA, William “Billy” David Coalson and wife, Lisa, of Richmond, VA, and Jefferson “Jeff” Davis Coalson and wife, Sarah, of Johnson City, TN; sisters, Nellie Louise Stormaicki and husband, Tom, of Chesterfield, VA, Nancy Louise Sawyers and husband, Luke, of Marion, VA, and Virginia “Ann” Aubert and husband, Carl, of Mountain City, TN; his beloved grandbabies, Isaiah Ray Coalson, Zachary Lee Coalson, Colton Levi Foore, and Benjamin Isaac Coalson; nieces and nephews who were more like grandbabies, Liam Yeaples, Cecilia Mae, and Jackson Larry Yeaples, Katy Tuggle, and Chyanna Seavert; special niece and nephew who took exceptional care of him, Jessica Tilson and Aaron Hall; great-nieces and great-nephews, Bryson and Aubreyanna Seavert; special coworkers; special friends, Scott Rhea, Randy Jones, Danny Cassell, Patricia and Gene Hutton, and a host of other loving family members and friends.

The family will hold a private Celebration of Life at a later date.

Online condolences may be expressed at drhendersonfuneralhome.com. D.R. Henderson Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Cecil “Curtis” Coalson.