menu

Subscribe to Obituary List

Celebrating the life of

Celeste Coleman Shearouse

May 14, 1951 - January 30, 2026

Celeste Coleman Shearouse

Celeste Coleman Shearouse, 74, of Savannah, Ga, passed away January 30, 2026, after a long illness.

Celeste, the firstborn child of Mary and Tom Coleman, arrived on this earth on May 14, 1951, ready to take charge. An incredible force throughout her lifetime, she left those she met along the way stronger, wiser, and better for having known her. Her bright smile, joyful nature, listening ear, and, most especially, her infectious laugh were among the many special gifts that drew people to her.  

In 1975, she married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Joey Shearouse, who would be her rock and support throughout the joys and challenges of their journey together. 

She was blessed with many God-given talents, excelling at everything from athletics to motherhood, to leading the way to improve her community. As a civic leader, Celeste served on the board of SAFE KIDS Savannah, which provided resources and operational support to keep kids injury-free. She dedicated 37 years of service to St. Joseph’s Candler Hospital, first as a medical technologist, and eventually retired from the hospital as Director of Organization and Strategic Planning. She received the Lientz Humanitarian Award, which highlighted one of her most notable accomplishments: helping to found Medbank, a local non-profit that assists individuals in accessing needed medications that might not otherwise be available to them. She received the Catherine McAuley Award from St. Vincent’s Academy for exemplifying “spirit, compassion, and service.” Celeste served as the Chair of Riverside Nursing Home, the Savannah Light the Night Walk, and founded, along with her father, Tom Coleman, and Sr. Jude Walsh, the St. Vincent’s 1845 Foundation for the preservation of the St. Vincent’s convent. Because of her passion for athletics, she started the first St. Vincent’s Athletic Association to help students compete at high levels, foster personal growth and enhance their athletic experience.  

Those who know Celeste were not surprised to hear that when she was battling leukemia, she approached it with courage, optimism, and her unwavering faith.  A bone marrow transplant from her brother, John, gave her the gift of seventeen more years to know and enjoy her 10 beautiful grandchildren, who fondly call her “Cessie.”

Celeste will forever hold a cherished place in the hearts of those she touched. There was nothing she wouldn’t do for family, a friend or someone in need. The loving legacy she wove now lives on through them.  

Celeste is survived by her husband; Joseph Shearouse Sr., four children; Mary Katherine Alexander (Daniel), Joseph Shearouse, Jr. (Haley), Elizabeth Bremer (Jay), Stephanie Beall (Stephen),  ten grandchildren; Thomas Shearouse, Celeste Frances Alexander, Lucy Shearouse, Andie Shearouse, Finn Bremer, Sam Bremer, Madeline Beall, Amelia Bremer, Claire Beall, and Whelan Alexander,  two sisters; Lynn Coleman Brown (Bill), and Suzanne Coleman Cone (John), and three brothers; J. Thomas Coleman, III, James Patrick Coleman, Sr., and John Michael Coleman (Avis), and her brother-in-law, William Shearouse, Jr. (Rhonda). 

Visitation will be held at the Church of the Most Blessed Sacrament on February 2, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 6:30 p.m., with a rosary service beginning at 6:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the Church of the Most Blessed Sacrament on February 3, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Burial will immediately follow in Greenwich Cemetery. 

Memorial donations may be made to Benedictine Military School William Ward Shearouse, Sr. Scholarship, the Blessed Sacrament Faithfully Forward Church Renovation Fund, or St. Vincent’s Academy Annual Fund. The family wishes to extend their appreciation for the love and support from so many during Celeste’s illness.

 

SHARE YOUR CONDOLENCES

Image
GUEST BOOK

Joey, so sorry to hear the news of Celeste's passing. She was an amazing lady who did so much for so many. You and your extended family remain in our prayers.

- Drew Coleman, Canton, GA

"I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith". Rest in Peace, Celeste. With love and sympathy.

- Jane Patricia Harte , Savannah , Georgia

Joe, I am ao sorry to see that Celeste has passed. She contributed so much to so many and will be missed. I send my sincere condolences to you and your family. May God wrap his gracious arm's around you and all the family and give you peace.

- Frank & Kathryn Murray , Pembroke, GA

Betty and I were saddened to learn of Celeste's passing. We were blessed to have known her and will always remember her laugh and smile. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord; and May Perpetual Light shine upon her.

- Billy Wilson, Savannah, GA

So very sorry to learn of Celeste's passing. She was truly a remarkable lady and will be missed by all. Prayers for the Shearouse and Coleman families.

- Ethel Tuttle, Savannah, GA

We will never forget her strength in adversity, her love of family, & her constant smile. May Peace becwith you all.

- Elison Backus McAllaster, Savannah, Ga

To Joey, Mary Katherine, Joseph, Stephanie and Elizabeth, and all of the Coleman-Shearouse family, i am so sorry for your loss. Celeste was and will always be such a sweet, special person. She had such a way about her of making everyone around her feel good and that she was so happy to see you. It s truly a gift. You were so blessed to have her. She will live in so many people s hearts forever. We are keeping you in our prayers.

- Teri Browne, Savannah, Ga

As a former Zeta Tau Alpha sorority sister I always admired Celeste and how much she cared for others; she was just a love......a truly beautiful soul and a blessing to all who had the extremely good fortune of having crossed her path! Formerly Pam Huff

- Pamela Huff Holcombe, Peachtree Corners, GA

I worked with Celeste at Candler in the 90s. I LOVED her! She was an amazing person and I am saddened by her passing. She left her mark on all that she did and those who knew her.

- Sheets, Savannah, Georgia

My deepest sympathies. She's in her resting place held by you and your families arms. xo

- Lisa Dawn Smith, Charlotte, NC

Sending my love and prayers to all of Celeste's family. She was a beautiful person and loved so very much by all who knew her. All her family are so special to me and praying so much for all of them. God bless them. Rest in peace dear Celeste.

- Connie McBride, Savannah, GA

Joe, so sorry to hear of her passing. She was an amazing woman and friend. She would always joke with me on my comment I made at one of Lisa and Elizabeth's basketball game. I told her she would never let me live that down. What I wouldn't give to hear her say that and laugh that contagious laugh of hers. I will miss her so much. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

- Kelly Gray, Savannah, GA

I worked with Celeste at Candler for many years ! She had an infectious laugh, inspired us to better leaders, spoke with compassion and grace. Her family was her heart - I know she will be greatly missed here on earth, but I know she is in Heaven !

- Lynne Marini, Savannah, georgia

What a beautiful, gracious Southern lady Celeste was. She joined Zeta Tau Alpha 1970 at Georgia Southern College. Elected ZTA President and several other offices before graduation. Celeste and Sisters zoomed ZTA to top sorority at Georgia Southern College. We are honored and blessed for our Zeta Xi years together with our precious Celeste. Always a fireball of energy and happiness. Thank you Joe and children for sharing her with us. May the Good Shepherd gather you and family in His Loving arms with comfort and peace. Loving condolences, B. A. Smith

- Betty Ann McKenney Smith, Ocilla, GA

Joe Sr. and Joe Jr. We are sorry for your loss. May her memory be a blessing.

- John and Deatre Denion, Pooler , Ga

SUZANNE I am so sorry for the loss of your dear sister I am sure she was just like you May you and your family receive God's Blessings during this time much love

- Laurann Cook , Morganton, Ga

SUZANNE I am so sorry for the loss of your dear sister I am sure she was just like you May you and your family receive God's Blessings during this time much love

- Laurann Cook , Morganton, Ga

Joey and family, please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of Celeste. She was truly a wonderful person and will be missed by all who knew her and loved her.You are in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time.

- Kathy and Martin Koncul, Savannah, Georgia

Joey and family, it was such an honor and pleasure to know Celeste and work with her for so many years at Candler. Her laugh was so infectious.. we always knew when she was working. So much fun to be around but yet very professional. She will be missed but always remembered. Love you Celeste.

- Lena Meeks , Savannah , Ga

A candle has been lit!

Sincere sadness upon hearing the news

- Brian and Lisa Fogarty , Sugar Hill, GA

Shearouse and Coleman families, Celeste was two years ahead of me at St. Vincent's and I always looked up to her. Warm, friendly, fun and always glad to see you. She was a joy to be around. I will remember her always. Sending my love and condolences to you all.

- Jan Holland Ethridge, Alpharetta, Ga

I was lucky to know Celeste when we moved to Forest Hills as the Colemans lived down the street. Celeste and I often used our ballet skills to entertain our family and friends with outdoor performances. Wish all the family my heartfelt sympathy and know you will miss her. She was a beautiful soul!

- Kathy Williams Shelton, Savannah, Georgia

I am so sorry to hear that your wonderful wife and old high school friend of mine had passed. The two of you were such an important part of my high school life. Please share my condolences with your entire family.

- Larry Reiner, Milwaukee, Wi.

Celeste was beautiful inside and out. I first met her in high school and she was always so warm and kind. Years later, I was lucky to be on a tennis team with her, she was truly a force. The last time I saw her was in 2014, and her positivity during a difficult time gave me so much hope after my cancer diagnosis. My deepest condolences to Joe, her children and family.

- Chantal Gaudry Considine, Savannah, GA

Tommy, Jimmy, Lynn, Suzanne, and John What a loss for ya'll. I am so sorry that the Coleman's will have to carry on without their leader. She was truly unique. Fond memories of 40th St came quickly when I saw this. The Coleman Clan just oozed with sibling love and made 40th St very special. Keep thinking of all the good times ya'll had. I will keep all of you in my prayers during this really sad time. Prayers. To all her family and extended family, What a treasure you all had. I'm sure what ever role Celeste was to you, being wife, mother, grand mother,aunt, in law she gave you the best part of her. My condolences to all of you. Della Latimer

- Latimer, Savannah, Ga

Celeste had so many great accomplishments, but we are sure she would agree that her greatest accomplishment, along with Joey, was raising such a wonderful family. When we think of Celeste we will always remember her great smile and joyful disposition. Our deepest sympathies to all of the Shearouse and Coleman families. We will be thinking of and praying for you all. Patty and Tom Anglin

- Patty & Tom Anglin, Atlanta, GA

Oh, I am so, so sorry to learn that Celeste is gone! She was such a loving and accomplished woman. She was always so sweet to my mother. We send our love and sympathy to all of you. --Kathleen, Jeff, Ben and Rosalee Lewis

- Kathleen Lewis, Atlanta, GA

My thoughts and prayers go out to Celeste's family. I was grateful for her leadership as President of the Blessed Sacrament School Home and School Association. I was always grateful for assistance. May she rest in the peace of Almighty God.

- Mary Anne Butler, Tybee Island, GA

Joey & Family, we are so sad about Celeste. She fought the good fight for so long and she fought so hard. She had such a good heart and meant so much to so many. We loved her and will miss her laugh.

- Michael & Jill H Flynn, Savannah, GA

We are so very sorry. We will always infectious laugh and joyful demeanor.

- Debbie and Mike Harper, Pooler, Georgia

Joe and family, I am saddened by the passing of Celeste. She will be forever in your hearts. Praying for your strength during this heartbreaking time in your lives.

- Charlotte Sams-Sweat, SAVANNAH, Georgia

Bobby and I amwere so saddened by the news of Celeste's passing. She was such a kind and caring person and she will be missed. Love and prayers to you all.

- Lisa Covino, Savannah, Ga

Joe, my deepest sympathy to the family. It was a blessing to me to have known her.

- Alice C Agnew, Claxton, Georgia

My sincere condolences to the Shearouse/Coleman family. May the Lord give you comfort and peace, and may you find joy in the good memories had. Rest in peace Celeste.

- Myriam Baker, Savannah, GA

To the Shearouse & Coleman Families, I send my deepest sympathy & condolences for the loss of Celeste. Such a lovely lady. May God surround you with his blessings of peace & comfort, now and in the time ahead.

- Carolyn S. Sheehan, Tybee Island, GA

I am so sorry to hear of Celeste's passing. I remember her from Ruth Goodman (my aunt)'s ballet school. She was full of energy and laughter. I am very impressed with all her endeavors, but not surprised as she had a giving spirit. You have my deepest sympathies.

- Bobbie Shelton, Savannah, GA

Joey, so many good memories we all share as friends in Savannah. Celeste was a dear friend to so many of us at BC and Saint Vincent's. May God bless her dear soul. May God bless you and your family.

- Betsie and Danny Maner , Mt Pleasant, SC

Prayers for your comfort in memories of times spent together as family . I met her first in the lab at St Joseph's in the 70's and then again when she worked at Candler in the 80's. She asked for me to be with the SVA first boosters group and she always led with a confidence that made failure an impossible moment. Her illness was a challenge she met face on and showed us all how faith is your greatest defense. I remember her comments that she would now test as male in genetics since she had her brothers DNA in the bone marrow . A great gift of life well lived in love for others . My sincerest condolences on your loss of her earthly presence but she is just beyond the veil of death, awaiting all in the glory of the next journey.

- Agnes Cannella, Savannah, Georgia

Joe and family. We are saddened to hear of Celeste's passing. She fought a long battle. Our encounters with her were of a friendly smile, laughter, and talks about family and shared experiences. She will be missed by all. God will strengthen each one of you to know she is in good hands. May his grace lift you up during this time. Lewis and Diana Hodges

- Hodges, Savannah, GA

Our deepest condolences to all the family members especially to our dear friends Tom Coleman & Suzanne Cone. May the Lord bring you peace during this sad time.

- The Pollaks, Savannah , Ga.

Joe, my deepest condolences to you and your family. May you and the whole Coleman-Shearouse family find peace and comfort in this time, and may your memories of her fill you with light and warmth.

- Jane Berrill, Savannah, GA

I am so sorry to hear this news, but I know that Celeste is dining with the saints in paradise today. She was a great friend, someone I would trust with my life. Though it's been many years since our Leadership Savannah class, every time I would see her, we would laugh about how much fun we had and where all our classmates were now. She was and will remain an exemplary person in every way. Sending love to her precious family.

- Stacy Jennings, Savannah, Georgia

Stephanie - I am so sorry to hear that your mom passed. I was incredibly lucky to have known her through work and also through you and St. Vincent's soccer. Your mom was truly one of a kind. Strong, no-nonsense, big heart, and always getting things done. No job was too big, no good deed was too small. And her laugh...I used to sit in my office which was just outside of hers and crack up when I'd hear her laugh because it was so big, fun and infectious! God bless her and your entire family.

- Andy Kaplan, Tega Cay, South Carolina

Mrs. Shearouse had the sweetest smile, an infectious laugh, and the kind nature to follow. If I didn't see her working a room at ye olde Blessed Sacrament, she would be one of the leaders of any Coleman gathering down the block on 46th Street. I take great comfort in knowing she is at peace and pray for her legacy to live on in the hearts of so many who loved her. Part of that legacy lives on in the loving kindness that she bestowed upon our family in the midst of a life saving situation. Shortly after my mother donated a kidney to save my late Uncle Stephen's life (which gave us over 25 more years with him), Mrs. Shearouse organized a food train to support that crucial recovery, which was celebrated by my sweet Mother and food aficianado Father (Ha!). To quote Mother Teresa, "We can do no great things, only small things with great love." As my students say, she "understood the assignment" when it comes to everyday acts of kindness...which prove to be far more significant than grand gestures. Sending love, light, and prayers to the Coleman & Shearouse families from the West. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord; may we all learn from her many precious examples.

- Mark Mizelle, Denver, CO

Mike and I send our love and deepest condolences to the Coleman family for your profound loss. Rest with the angels, Celeste.

- Michael and Ann Robb, Savannah, GA

Joey, Mary Katherine, Shearouse family and Coleman family, I am saddened to learn of Celeste's passing. She was wonderful person and a light to many. May God give you all comfort and may Celeste rest in heavenly peace.

- Ernest Williams , New York , New York

Thinking of your family. We are so sorry for your loss. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted Matthew 5:4

- Russell and Patty McBee, Dacula, Ga

Dear Coleman and Shearouse family, Celeste meant so much to our family from a very young age. I personally have such fond memories of her as my basketball coach at Blessed Sacrament. I am sorry I couldn't attend the services due to being out of the country. Love all of you and my thoughts and prayers bestowed for all. Love, Therese Williams

- Therese Williams Shaffer, SAVANNAH, GA

So very sad to learn of her passing. My sympathy to the entire family. Celeste was a remarkable woman, and will be missed by so many. May God comfort her loved ones at this time of grief.

- Mary Jane Donahue, Savannah, GA

Suzanne, I am so very sorry for your loss. I loved Celeste and will always be grateful for the kindness she showed me during my time playing basketball for her at BSS. As an awkward middle schooler, I was unsure of myself and had very little confidence. Celeste had a way of seeing something in me that I couldn't yet see in myself. Her steady encouragement, her patience, and her genuine care made a lasting impression on me. There are only a few people in life who truly shape how we see ourselves, and Celeste was one of those people for me. I will always remember how she made me feel valued and believed in. Please know I am holding you and your family in my thoughts and sending my deepest sympathies.

- Jude Mathews, Natick, MA

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200