Donald (Don) Keith Coats

Donald (Don) Keith Coats, age 68, departed this life on Wednesday, January 31, at his residence in Whiteville, TN. Don was born on September 13, 1955, in Memphis, TN to James Wallace Coats and Betty Jewel Elder Richter.  He worked as a Mechanical and Industrial Engineering Professional. 

Don loved riding his motorcycle and taking long cross-country road trips with friends. He was a great mechanic and could fix just about anything he put his hands on. For the people that knew him best, he was a true treasury to have with his extremely charismatic and outgoing personality. Don also had a very fun-loving, goofy personality that he loved sharing with others to make them laugh and smile. His favorite thing to do was a well-done Donald Duck impersonation. He loved to have a good time and lit up any room he walked into. To so many of his close friends, he meant a lot to them. For his family, they will miss him dearly and will hold very closely to their hearts the many memories gathered and shared from his life with them.  

He is survived by his daughter, Chloe Coats Ballard (Tony); three sisters, Shirley Antwine, Debra Harris, Sandra Coats Messer; one brother, James Coats, and one grandchild, Elijah Ballard.  He was preceded in death by his parents, James Wallace Coats and Betty Richter. 

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial donations to the Gallaway First Baptist Church in Gallaway, TN in remembrance of his mother, Betty Richter, who was a long-time active and respected member. 

The family has honored his wishes for cremation and no services are scheduled at this time. All arrangements and services are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home in Brownsville, TN.