Mrs. Elissa Ann Coalson

Elissa Coalson of Alpharetta, Georgia went peacefully to be with Jesus on Saturday, March 23, 2024, surrounded by her loving and devoted family. Just shy of her 90th birthday, which would have been on March 29, Elissa joins her beloved husband, Emmett, of 65 years, who passed in 2019 and her parents, Joe and Cleo Coleman. She is survived by daughters Melissa Jensen (Bill) and Emily Richards (Ricky), and grandchildren Kyle Richards (Deanne), Sam Richards (Candace), Jenci Ray (Tyler), Joey Jensen (Mary Beth), Nikki Oliver, Matt Jensen (Benz), Andy Jensen (Sunisa), Jacquie Zematis and 11 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Joan Coleman, and nieces and nephews. Elissa is also survived by Debra (Debbie) Robinson, her loving and faithful caregiver. Debbie stayed with Elissa full-time during the last several years so she could remain in the comforts of her own home – and the family is ever-grateful for the loving care Debbie provided. Debbie says of Elissa, “She was one of the most gracious people I’ve ever met. Both she and Emmet were always so appreciative. It was a pleasure to provide care and companionship to them.” Born in Roswell, Georgia in 1934, Elissa’s early years were happy but challenged, when at age 8 she was diagnosed with a serious form of osteomyelitis and subsequently hospitalized. Once recovered, she went on to finish schooling, graduating from Milton High School in 1952 as the class Salutatorian. Following graduation, she worked as a legal secretary in the real estate industry. On April 24, 1954, Elissa married her life-long love Emmett Coalson. She and Emmet lived in Roswell until 1967, when they moved to Crabapple, where they became active members in the Crabapple Baptist Church. In fact, after taking a break from the legal world, Elissa went to work as the secretary at Crabapple Baptist Church, when her daughters were in high school and then returned to the legal field. Throughout her life, Elissa was a devoted wife and mother, and remained steadfast in her priorities of faith and family. She was always one who enjoyed cooking and entertaining, especially for her beloved family. During family gatherings, she loved to play card games, which she also played on the computer. A die-hard Atlanta Braves fan, Elissa enjoyed watching games and rooting for the hometown team. In retirement, she and Emmett enjoyed splitting their time between Crabapple and their homes in the beautiful mountains of Hiawasee, Georgia, and being active members in an antique car club. In her later years, Elissa took pleasure in watching game shows on television, as well as viewing her favorite show Gunsmoke. Visitation will be on Tuesday 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm and also on Wednesday from 11:00 am till time of the service at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or the Ronald McDonald House.

Mrs. Elissa Ann Coalson

March 29, 1934 - March 23, 2024