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Celebrating the life of

Tom Coffey

February 14, 1923 - November 22, 2015

Tom Coffey

SAVANNAH - Tom Coffey, retired editor of the Savannah Morning News & Evening Press and a journalist in the Savannah area for more than 50 years, died on Sunday while in hospice care in LaGrange, Ga. He was 92. Coffey was the only son of the late Thomas Francis Coffey Sr. and the late Julian Bacon Coffey, and was preceded in death by his wife of 42 years, Mary Corley Coffey, and daughter, Mary Cynthia Smith.

Coffey began his newspaper career as an Evening Press carrier, rising from paper carrier to editor. He also worked in the 1950s as the first news director/sports director for WSAV-TV and served from 1969-1974 as an assistant city manager for the City of Savannah, twice during that 5-year period holding the title of acting city manager. After his stint in municipal government, he returned to the newspaper where he served until his retirement in 1989. In the 1990s he continued to write a newspaper column two days a week, make occasional appearances as a commentator on television news programs, and was the author of several books, including two focused on Savannah events, tales and folklore. Upon his official retirement he was described in the Savannah Morning News and later in the Congressional Record as “the Dean of Savannah, Ga. newsmen.”

A native of Walthourville, Ga., Coffey moved to Savannah as a child and graduated in 1940 from Savannah High School. He was a World War II veteran and recipient of the Bronze Star, Purple Heart and numerous other medals and decorations. He served in the Army as a combat infantryman and took part in the invasion of Luzon and the capture of Manilla as well as other actions in the Philippines. He was a staff sergeant.

Locally, Coffey headed several civic organizations including the Ambucs, the Midway Society, the Sons of the Revolution in Georgia, the South Atlantic Baseball Writers, the Greater Savannah Athletic Hall of Fame (recognized as an honoree for his contributions as a sports writer), the 1-2-3 Club, and the Rourke Memorial Trustees.

In his religious parish Coffey served twice as senior warden of St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church. He was also a lay reader, lay preacher, vestryman and Sunday school teacher. In addition, he served for 10 years as convenor of the annual lay reader’ conference for the Episcopal Diocese of Georgia.

Survivors include his wife, Marjorie K. Guice Coffey; three grandchildren, Loran Dennis Smith, III (Tara) of Marietta, Ga., Thomas Corley Smith (Ashleigh) of Jacksonville, Fla., and Julia Elizabeth Smith of Macon, Ga.; two great grandsons, Liam and Aaron Smith of Marietta; a son-in-law, the Rev. Loran D. Smith, Jr. of Lizella, Ga.; a sister, Nancy Whitworth of LaGrange; several nieces and nephews and step-children.

The family will receive friends on Friday, November 27, from 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel and again on Saturday at noon at St. Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 28, 2015, at St. Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests remembrances be made to St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, 3101 Waters Ave., Savannah, GA 31405 or to Wesley Glen Ministries, 4580 North Mumford Rd., Macon, GA 31210 www.wesleyglenministries.com

Please sign our on-line guest book at www.foxandweeks.com

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GUEST BOOK

I always knew Mr. Coffee. Being raised at St. Michaels he was always there. Mr. Coffee was how I learned what a Gentleman was. Always cheerful and always treated me as if we were related in some distant manner. He will be missed by so many and will forever be one of my favorite "Adults". Walt Arnsdorff

- Walter T. Arnsdorff, Savannah, Ga.

I am sorry I missed Tom's services. I was not aware of Tom's military service or achievements, but I am not surprised. He was the Dean of Sports Writers in the 50's, and very nice to me. Tom was a "throwback" type writer who wrote the best things about people. He covered my Dad's boat racing career, as well as the Quarterback Club of the 50's and 60's. I always read his articles which were accurate and shared his vision. He was a great friend to the Anderson family.

- Taz Anderson, Atlanta, Ga

I worked with Tom Coffey at the Savannah News-Press many years ago. Tom, to me, was Mr. Savannah, as he knew everyone and everything about Savannah. He was a true Southern gentleman always willing to help wherever and whenever needed. Miriam Potter

- Miriam Potter, Richmond Hill, Ga

I worked with Tom at the Savannah News-Press some years ago. Tom was always quick to help me out when I needed it. As time went by, I began to feel Tom was "Mr. Savannah". He knew everything that was worth knowing about Savannah. There will never be another like him. Miriam Potter

- Miriam Potter, Richmond Hill, Ga

To the Tom Coffey family, my sympathy and prayers. Tom was one of the most thoughtful, sincere, and strait-forward individuals I have ever met. More importantly, he was true friend and will be greatly missed.

- John Burke, Savannah, Ga

My deepest condolences to the Coffey family for the loss of your dear loved one. During this most difficult time, may your hearts be comforted by Jehovah God's promise to swallow up death forever and to wipe away the tears from all faces(Isaiah 25:8).

- Thomas, Snellville, Ga.

Dear family of my friend and patient Tom Coffey. He was a wonderful man, mentor and humanitarian. We first met when I played baseball as a young kid and he helped me along the way to work hard and develop better skills. As fate would have it he became my first patient when I began my practice of medicine with my father. What a terrific experience that turned out to be. He will always be remembered and loved as the compassionate and caring person he was. A wonderful person, an American Hero for his Military service and his contributions to Savannah unmatched. God surely has a great new citizen in his kingdom. Alberta and Dr John Fillingim

- Dr and Mrs John Fillingim, Savannah, GA

Dear Cyndy and family, I just happened to be surfing online and came across your Dad's obituary. Please know how very sorry I am to learn of his death. Tom was a mentor and great friend, both at the Savannah News-Press and at St. Michael's. (In fact, he's the reason we chose St. Michael's as our parish church back in 1972.) He hired me as an intern while I was a student at the University of S.C. during the summer of 1963, and after I returned in1972 as city editor, we became reacquainted through St. Michael's and the City Manager's office. I learned a great deal from Tom as a journalist and as a Christian. He was direct and thorough, but diplomatic and very kind. I am saddened by his passing and the world is much diminished. God bless you and your family.

- Gene Willard, Morganton, NC

Tom was one of my favorite people. He was kind, giving, and very thoughtful. I knew his late wife, Mary, and got to know Marjorie on a trip many of us made to France 10 years ago! He must be so happy to be with his only daughter now! We will all miss him but what a life he had!! I truly loved him! Judy Farrell, a fallen member of St. Michaels! Tom's family is in my prayers

- Judy Farrell, Savannah, Georgia

God Bless Him.

- Coleman, Savannah, Ga

Tom Is a wonderful caring Man and shared many insights with me in My Life,I am blessed to have worked with Tom on his home ! GOD Bless him

- Art Smith, Vidalia , GA

I was so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. I know that he and my dad (Jim Head) were longtime friends. David and I are sending love and prayers to the family during this difficult time.

- David and Theresa Head Turner, Lecanto, FL

To the Coffey Family: I send my deepest sympathy on the passing of Tom.He was not only a good friend of mine,but also of my late Father who served for many years as Chief of the Chatham County Police.Tom was a true newsman and a credit to his country,faith and family.He will truly be missed.

- Tom Mahoney, Savannah, Georgia

I am the daughter of Pat Coffey, Tom's cousin. Please allow me to extend my sympathy to the family in the loss of such an accomplished journalist and wonderful gentleman. I last saw Tom almost five years ago on the occasion of my brother's death. It meant a great deal to me that he and Marjorie took the time to express their condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

- Linda Coffey McKenzie, Plano, IL

It was a typically chilly evening in my hometown (Altoona, Pa.) when Tom Coffey called and offered me a position as a sportswriter for the Savannah Morning News-Evening Press. That was March 1969. My first impression when I met him in person was that of a true Southern gentleman and an oustanding newspaperman. I last saw him was in 2013 at a church in Richmond Hill when a former colleague of mine at the newspaper paid our final respects to former News-Press sports editor Marcus Holland.

- Hank Orberg, Brunswick, GA

A true Southern gentleman and great American. It was an honor to have known him. He will be missed.

- Bob White, Jr., Greensboro, Georgia

I had the pleasure to meet Mr. Coffey thru my father in the mid 1950's. He was and is an icon in Savannah. Journalism has lost one of last protectors of telling the story as it really was. He and my Dad shared some wonderful times covering the Savannah baseball clubs. He will be missed.

- Louis M Rawls, Jr, Atlanta, GA

Our profession has lost another great man, a revered journalist and one of the remaining few true "newspapermen/persons." May the legacy that he and his "contemporaries" remain in those of us who benefit daily from their knowledge, mentoring and guidance, and may they keep the presses rolling in Heaven.

- Kathy Hilt, Vidalia, GA

My Cousin Thomas Coffey Although I didn’t meet him until five years or so ago, when I finally had the pleasure of seeing him and getting to know him, I felt his warmth and laughter fill my heart with joy. He was my cousin on my mother’s side and although he knew about me, I had only just met him. I traveled to Savannah, where I was born, and spent some wonderful times with Thomas. He proudly showed off his favorite city to me as we drove around the squares of Savannah. Although in his 90’s, he sounded like a history professor sharing all that he knew about the homes and churches, along the squares and some of the colorful stories of his life, many years ago when he was growing up, and later as editor of the Savannah News. He was a southern gentleman who was proud of his faith and proud of Savannah. These precious memories, I will always treasure. He had a sweet and caring nature and he made me smile. Already in his 90’s, I had to pick up my walking pace a bit to keep up with him as he showed me the pier at Tybee Island, the lovely homes along the water in Isle of Hope, all the time telling stories of long ago. He welcomed me with open, loving arms, when I decided to move back to Savannah and it felt good to get to know part of a family I had been separated from so many years ago. Many of us will miss him dearly. He lived here all his life and was loved by many. I recall walking with him and having people stop and say,” excuse me sir, aren’t you Thomas Coffey?” He would smile, chuckle, and reply“ why yes, I am.” “Oh how I loved reading your articles in the Savannah News! “ “Oh thank you, “ he would reply. Although being stopped like this, happened quite often, I could see the sparkle in his eyes and the quickening of his step each time it happened. He had retired in 1989, but continued feeling he was a vibrant, enduring part of this town. He started working as a young boy delivering papers and fifty years later, retired as editor of the Savannah Morning News and the Savannah Evening Press. He loved his work and was proud of his Savannah. Some of his stories can be read in the two books he wrote, “Only In Savannah” and “Savannah Love and More.” The books are both a delightful read. I am going to miss this incredible southern gentleman, as I am sure the people who knew him and those that looked forward to reading his articles in the Savannah News, would also. Every community has its jewels, its people that shine a little brighter for all to get to know and to admire. My cousin, Thomas F. Coffey, Jr. was one of those jewels that will forever shine in my heart. Suzanne Bolyard

- Suzanne Bolyard (cousin), savannah, ga

My sympathy to the family. As you comfort each other in your time of grief, draw your ultimate comfort from the God of all comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3,4) who comforts us in all our trials.

- Patricia Parker, Atlanta, Ga

My grandparents were Tom and Dorothea Bradley. I grew up going to St. Michael's with them every Sunday. Mr. Coffey was a big part of my religeous upbringing. I remember being concerned any time he wasn't on the alter. I also remember fondly his 4th of July sermons and his part of The Passion on Palm Sunday. My most touching memory is of the night of my Grandpa's visitation, when he passed. I was a teenage girl. Mr. Coffey hugged me and we cried together. I will never forget that tender moment. It was the first time I ever saw a grown man cry. God bless.

- Bradley-Barry, Richmond Hill, ga

He was such a wonderful man and did so much for Savannah.

- Carolyn Conley, Marietta, Ga

I always knew Mr. Coffee. Being raised at St. Michaels he was always there. Mr. Coffee was how I learned what a Gentleman was. Always cheerful and always treated me as if we were related in some distant manner. He will be missed by so many and will forever be one of my favorite "Adults". Walt Arnsdorff

- Walter T. Arnsdorff, Savannah, Ga.

I am sorry I missed Tom's services. I was not aware of Tom's military service or achievements, but I am not surprised. He was the Dean of Sports Writers in the 50's, and very nice to me. Tom was a "throwback" type writer who wrote the best things about people. He covered my Dad's boat racing career, as well as the Quarterback Club of the 50's and 60's. I always read his articles which were accurate and shared his vision. He was a great friend to the Anderson family.

- Taz Anderson, Atlanta, Ga

I worked with Tom Coffey at the Savannah News-Press many years ago. Tom, to me, was Mr. Savannah, as he knew everyone and everything about Savannah. He was a true Southern gentleman always willing to help wherever and whenever needed. Miriam Potter

- Miriam Potter, Richmond Hill, Ga

I worked with Tom at the Savannah News-Press some years ago. Tom was always quick to help me out when I needed it. As time went by, I began to feel Tom was "Mr. Savannah". He knew everything that was worth knowing about Savannah. There will never be another like him. Miriam Potter

- Miriam Potter, Richmond Hill, Ga

To the Tom Coffey family, my sympathy and prayers. Tom was one of the most thoughtful, sincere, and strait-forward individuals I have ever met. More importantly, he was true friend and will be greatly missed.

- John Burke, Savannah, Ga

My deepest condolences to the Coffey family for the loss of your dear loved one. During this most difficult time, may your hearts be comforted by Jehovah God's promise to swallow up death forever and to wipe away the tears from all faces(Isaiah 25:8).

- Thomas, Snellville, Ga.

Dear family of my friend and patient Tom Coffey. He was a wonderful man, mentor and humanitarian. We first met when I played baseball as a young kid and he helped me along the way to work hard and develop better skills. As fate would have it he became my first patient when I began my practice of medicine with my father. What a terrific experience that turned out to be. He will always be remembered and loved as the compassionate and caring person he was. A wonderful person, an American Hero for his Military service and his contributions to Savannah unmatched. God surely has a great new citizen in his kingdom. Alberta and Dr John Fillingim

- Dr and Mrs John Fillingim, Savannah, GA

Dear Cyndy and family, I just happened to be surfing online and came across your Dad's obituary. Please know how very sorry I am to learn of his death. Tom was a mentor and great friend, both at the Savannah News-Press and at St. Michael's. (In fact, he's the reason we chose St. Michael's as our parish church back in 1972.) He hired me as an intern while I was a student at the University of S.C. during the summer of 1963, and after I returned in1972 as city editor, we became reacquainted through St. Michael's and the City Manager's office. I learned a great deal from Tom as a journalist and as a Christian. He was direct and thorough, but diplomatic and very kind. I am saddened by his passing and the world is much diminished. God bless you and your family.

- Gene Willard, Morganton, NC

Tom was one of my favorite people. He was kind, giving, and very thoughtful. I knew his late wife, Mary, and got to know Marjorie on a trip many of us made to France 10 years ago! He must be so happy to be with his only daughter now! We will all miss him but what a life he had!! I truly loved him! Judy Farrell, a fallen member of St. Michaels! Tom's family is in my prayers

- Judy Farrell, Savannah, Georgia

God Bless Him.

- Coleman, Savannah, Ga

Tom Is a wonderful caring Man and shared many insights with me in My Life,I am blessed to have worked with Tom on his home ! GOD Bless him

- Art Smith, Vidalia , GA

I was so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. I know that he and my dad (Jim Head) were longtime friends. David and I are sending love and prayers to the family during this difficult time.

- David and Theresa Head Turner, Lecanto, FL

To the Coffey Family: I send my deepest sympathy on the passing of Tom.He was not only a good friend of mine,but also of my late Father who served for many years as Chief of the Chatham County Police.Tom was a true newsman and a credit to his country,faith and family.He will truly be missed.

- Tom Mahoney, Savannah, Georgia

I am the daughter of Pat Coffey, Tom's cousin. Please allow me to extend my sympathy to the family in the loss of such an accomplished journalist and wonderful gentleman. I last saw Tom almost five years ago on the occasion of my brother's death. It meant a great deal to me that he and Marjorie took the time to express their condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

- Linda Coffey McKenzie, Plano, IL

It was a typically chilly evening in my hometown (Altoona, Pa.) when Tom Coffey called and offered me a position as a sportswriter for the Savannah Morning News-Evening Press. That was March 1969. My first impression when I met him in person was that of a true Southern gentleman and an oustanding newspaperman. I last saw him was in 2013 at a church in Richmond Hill when a former colleague of mine at the newspaper paid our final respects to former News-Press sports editor Marcus Holland.

- Hank Orberg, Brunswick, GA

A true Southern gentleman and great American. It was an honor to have known him. He will be missed.

- Bob White, Jr., Greensboro, Georgia

I had the pleasure to meet Mr. Coffey thru my father in the mid 1950's. He was and is an icon in Savannah. Journalism has lost one of last protectors of telling the story as it really was. He and my Dad shared some wonderful times covering the Savannah baseball clubs. He will be missed.

- Louis M Rawls, Jr, Atlanta, GA

Our profession has lost another great man, a revered journalist and one of the remaining few true "newspapermen/persons." May the legacy that he and his "contemporaries" remain in those of us who benefit daily from their knowledge, mentoring and guidance, and may they keep the presses rolling in Heaven.

- Kathy Hilt, Vidalia, GA

My Cousin Thomas Coffey Although I didn’t meet him until five years or so ago, when I finally had the pleasure of seeing him and getting to know him, I felt his warmth and laughter fill my heart with joy. He was my cousin on my mother’s side and although he knew about me, I had only just met him. I traveled to Savannah, where I was born, and spent some wonderful times with Thomas. He proudly showed off his favorite city to me as we drove around the squares of Savannah. Although in his 90’s, he sounded like a history professor sharing all that he knew about the homes and churches, along the squares and some of the colorful stories of his life, many years ago when he was growing up, and later as editor of the Savannah News. He was a southern gentleman who was proud of his faith and proud of Savannah. These precious memories, I will always treasure. He had a sweet and caring nature and he made me smile. Already in his 90’s, I had to pick up my walking pace a bit to keep up with him as he showed me the pier at Tybee Island, the lovely homes along the water in Isle of Hope, all the time telling stories of long ago. He welcomed me with open, loving arms, when I decided to move back to Savannah and it felt good to get to know part of a family I had been separated from so many years ago. Many of us will miss him dearly. He lived here all his life and was loved by many. I recall walking with him and having people stop and say,” excuse me sir, aren’t you Thomas Coffey?” He would smile, chuckle, and reply“ why yes, I am.” “Oh how I loved reading your articles in the Savannah News! “ “Oh thank you, “ he would reply. Although being stopped like this, happened quite often, I could see the sparkle in his eyes and the quickening of his step each time it happened. He had retired in 1989, but continued feeling he was a vibrant, enduring part of this town. He started working as a young boy delivering papers and fifty years later, retired as editor of the Savannah Morning News and the Savannah Evening Press. He loved his work and was proud of his Savannah. Some of his stories can be read in the two books he wrote, “Only In Savannah” and “Savannah Love and More.” The books are both a delightful read. I am going to miss this incredible southern gentleman, as I am sure the people who knew him and those that looked forward to reading his articles in the Savannah News, would also. Every community has its jewels, its people that shine a little brighter for all to get to know and to admire. My cousin, Thomas F. Coffey, Jr. was one of those jewels that will forever shine in my heart. Suzanne Bolyard

- Suzanne Bolyard (cousin), savannah, ga

My sympathy to the family. As you comfort each other in your time of grief, draw your ultimate comfort from the God of all comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3,4) who comforts us in all our trials.

- Patricia Parker, Atlanta, Ga

My grandparents were Tom and Dorothea Bradley. I grew up going to St. Michael's with them every Sunday. Mr. Coffey was a big part of my religeous upbringing. I remember being concerned any time he wasn't on the alter. I also remember fondly his 4th of July sermons and his part of The Passion on Palm Sunday. My most touching memory is of the night of my Grandpa's visitation, when he passed. I was a teenage girl. Mr. Coffey hugged me and we cried together. I will never forget that tender moment. It was the first time I ever saw a grown man cry. God bless.

- Bradley-Barry, Richmond Hill, ga

He was such a wonderful man and did so much for Savannah.

- Carolyn Conley, Marietta, Ga

Services under the direction of:

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