Ronald “Ronnie” Coleman was born on June 11, 1942, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, to John and Marie Coleman. He was the youngest of nine children: Jerry, Dolores, Marilyn, Vincent, Mildred, James, Gloria, and Kinaya.

In 1945, the family relocated to North Edison, NJ—then known as Potters Crossing. Ronnie spent his formative years there in what was then a small rural farming community surrounded by suburbia. His childhood resembled scenes from the Our Gang comedies: riding bikes, building go-carts and stilts, and later tinkering with cars. His constant companion was the family dog, Skippy. He spent many afternoons at the local community center run by Ms. Veal, and many more riding motorcycles with his cousins, Anita and Jimmy.

Ronnie was a quiet, mild-mannered boy who grew into a quiet, mild-mannered man, well-liked by everyone who knew him.

Ronnie graduated from Edison High School in 1960 and went on to serve in the U.S. Air Force, where he was stationed in Korea.

A devoted family man, Ronnie married Joyce Monroe after returning home from the service. Together they had two children, Kelli and Ronald Cornelius, and made their home in Linden, NJ.

After their divorce, Ronnie later married the love of his life, Levonia Starling-Grooms. They were married for 42 years and remained inseparable until his passing. Through their union, he also became a loving father to her five children: Denise, Eric (deceased), George, Yvette, and Kyle.

Ronnie is survived by his wife, Levonia; his two children; four stepchildren; two sisters; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family members.

Throughout his life, Ronnie worked in several fields. He owned small businesses, became a certified electrician, and later worked as a truck driver.

An accident while driving left him with a brain injury that caused a gradual health decline and ultimately contributed to his passing.

Despite his quiet nature, Ronnie was deeply loved and cherished by family, friends, and all who knew him. His gentle spirit will be greatly missed.

Rest in peace, Ronnie.