Thomas Coates, Jr.

Thomas Emmanuel Coates, Jr., affectionately known as “Tom C,” was born on April 9, 1986, in Columbus, Ohio, to his loving parents, Tyesand Locke and Thomas Emmanuel Coates, Sr. From the very beginning, Thomas carried a spirit of resilience, growth, and determination that would shape the course of his life.

Thomas earned his high school diploma through the Ohio Department of Education in 2005, marking an important milestone in his journey. He was a man committed to self-improvement and transformation, always striving to become a better version of himself. His dedication was evident through his successful completion of numerous programs, including the Structured Therapy, Advocacy, and Restoration Program and the “Thinking for a Change” course, where he was honored with an award in Cultural Diversity.

Thomas continued to invest in his personal growth by completing Parenting Wisely, budgeting and computer basics courses, substance abuse and anger management programs, and a job readiness class in which he received satisfactory honors. Each accomplishment reflected his desire not only to elevate his own life but also to be a positive influence in the lives of others.

At the time of his passing, Thomas was faithfully employed with Bettering Our Youth Mentorship, where he served as a transportation driver. In this role, he found purpose in helping guide and support the next generation, demonstrating his heart for service and community impact.

Thomas had a vibrant love for life, finding joy in simple moments like basketball, time at the casino, and making memories with those he loved. Above all, he cherished being a father, loving each of his children deeply and unconditionally. As he grew older, he was blessed with more time. This allowed him to be especially present with his youngest daughter, affectionately known as “Tink Tink.” That season of life reflected his growth and deepened understanding of the importance of showing up and expressing love. He made sure all of his children knew they were loved, proudly and openly, even carrying their names with him as a lasting tribute to his greatest legacy.

Thomas will be remembered for his strength, his journey of growth, his love for family, and the lasting impact he made on those who knew him. His life stands as a testament to perseverance, transformation, and the power of love.

Thomas was preceded in death by his brother, Tyejuan Locke, Sr.; stepmother, Que Kenke Coates; maternal grandmother, Dolores Locke Smith; maternal grandfather, Ben Smith; paternal grandmother, Sonjia Coates;  maternal great-grandmother, Margaret Locke; maternal greatgrandfather, William Locke; uncle, Jaye Nichols; cousins, Brandon and Travis Locke; and best friends, Richard Willis, Jr., “Lee-Lee” and Dweysean Y. Cox “WOP.”

He leaves to cherish his memory: his fiance, Autumn Better, his mother, Tyesand Locke; his father, Thomas Coates Sr.; his stepfather, LaRoy Robinson Sr.;  his daughters, Leeko, Taniseona, Yaniyah,  and baby Autumn; his sons, Demetrius and Tommy III; his sisters, Tiffany, Alyscia, Marquita, Kierra,  Dominique,  Tiauna, and Diamond; his brothers, Troy, TJ, LaRoy Jr., Tahj, Tristan, and D’Angelo; his grandmother Beverly Nichols, his maternal aunts, Nekoel and Marlene; his paternal aunts, Mo’Neke and Lakisha; his maternal uncles, Benjamin, Bené, and Micheal; his paternal uncle, Da’Von; his nieces, Takezeionna, Taumajah, Journee, Juana, and Tau’Mai; his nephews, Korey, Tommy, Tyejuan Jr., Sirgeo, Juan, and Robert; his great-nephew, Kacey; and a special great aunt Cennie Locke, Locke & Coates, Hansard & Seals, Reid-Harris, Smith, Lindsay, Allen, Cox family. Rec Leader Timberly Leffler, Coach Maurice and his 4th and 8th Family. He has a host of cousins, friends and extended family.

Thomas will be remembered for his resilience, his love for family, and the joy he brought to those who knew him. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

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