Gerald Coughlin

Gerald Joseph (Jerry) Coughlin, 91 of Opelika, passed away Saturday July 6, 2024, at his home following a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.   He was born November 14, 1932 in Montgomery, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his parents James Michael Coughlin and Agnes Catherine Weiers; his son Gregory Alan Coughlin and brother Donnie Coughlin.

He is survived by his loving wife Jane Federer Coughlin.  Children Dan (Wendi) Coughlin of Santa Cruz, CA, Jeanie Coughlin of Minneapolis, MN, Kari (Larry) Heber of Canton, GA and Tracie (Brian) Elrod (Auburn, AL and brothers Robert, Jim and Roger.  He was blessed to have six grandchildren whom he adored, Madison Elrod (Jake) Sandlin, Savannah Elrod, Lawrence Heber, Elizabeth Heber, Antonia Coughlin and Robert Coughlin.

Jerry was a veteran of the United States Army serving in Korea from 1953-54 in the 3rd Infantry Division, Scout Dog Platoon patrolling the DMZ with his scout dog “Big King”.  He then served in Japan from 1954-55 in the 519th Military Police in the Accident Investigation in Tokyo.  After the military he attended the University of Minnesota.  He enjoyed a career in the manufacturing industry, beginning as an accountant and successfully retiring as President and CEO of a group of manufacturing companies.

Jerry was a gentleman with an even gentler spirit, a pondering and thoughtful mind, and an unwavering faith in Our Lord and Savior.  As an Irishman, he was quick to listen and slow to speak but a storyteller at heart with a dry sense of humor.   He would share many fond and witty memories of life with children, grandchildren and the 40 years he and Jane shared together.  Along with being a loving husband, son, brother, father and “Pops”, he was a man with many passions.  Throughout his life and particularly in retirement, he and Jane shared hobbies of golf, exploring new places through travel, and photography.  His love of golf was rewarded with two hole-in-ones, which were often reminisced.  He had a curious mind and was an avid reader of historical nonfiction and poetry.   He enjoyed creating poems inspired by his own experiences and the people he loved.

Funeral services will be held Saturday August 3, 2024, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home at 11:00.  Visitation will begin at 10:00.  Father Micheal Farmer officiating.

In lieu of flowers the family request that you consider a donation to St. Jude Children's Hospital.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home is directing.