Obituary of Gerald Alton Coates

Gerald “Jerry” A. Coates

On Thursday, September 4, 2025, Gerald “Jerry” A. Coates, a longtime resident of Riverview, passed away at the Moncton Hospital at the age of 84, after a beautiful day spent with his family. 

Even as he fought his courageous battle with cancer, Jerry maintained the zesty personality and demeanour he was so well loved for.   

Jerry spent his early years in Coates Mills, a place he always loved to visit and reminisce about. 

For 27 years, Jerry proudly served as a foreman with the Town of Riverview. Both at work and at home, he was well known for his teasing, theatric singing — of both songs he knew and songs he liked to make up— particularly to Donna, the love of his life, his sense of humour, and story telling. He found joy in camping, bluegrass music, and watching hockey, with a particular fondness for the Moncton Wildcats, and cherished time spent with his family.

He will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 63 years, Donna Coates; daughter, Nancy (Eric) Gustavsson of Kelowna, BC; son Alan (Lisa) of Moncton; grandchildren, Melissa (John) Nicholson, Danika (Chris) Crossman, and Em Coates; great grandchildren, Thomas, Patrick and Leslie; brothers, John (Shirley) of Moncton, and Laurence (Linda) of Coverdale; sister, Ruth Hennessey (George) of Edmonton, AB; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Jerry was predeceased by his parents Leslie and Velma (Geddes) Coates; daughter Beverley Crossman; infant daughter Diane Lee; son-in-law, Rob MacLeod; brother, Ron Coates; sister, Elva Trew; and his favourite childhood horses, Prince, Queen, and Bill. 

A funeral service will be held at Fergusons Riverview Funeral Centre, 214 Pine Glen Rd. Riverview, NB, on Monday, September 8, 2025 at 1:00 pm, there will be a reception following the service. 

The family welcomes your stories and memories of Jerry, and there will be an opportunity during the service for those who wish to share them.

Those wishing to honour Jerry’s memory may do so through a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society, or a cause close to their heart.

Interment will be held at Wesleyan Union Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted into the professional care of Fergusons Riverview Funeral Centre, 214 Pine Glen Rd. Riverview. (506) 857-9544.

www.fergusonsriverview.com