Mrs. Lillian Coles

Lillian Louise Coles was born April 25th, 1954, in Alexandria, Virginia to the late Mary and James Addison. She was the youngest of six children. Her mother said her older brother upon seeing her as a newborn exclaimed “She’s an itty-bitty baby.” Thus the nickname “Bitty” was established for which she is famously known. Bitty grew up in Alexandria, where lifelong friendships were created. She attended Alexandria City High School, formerly known as T.C. Williams, and she attended her class of 1973’s 50th reunion and festivities in July 2023. Bitty had a love for children and in her early years worked as a teacher’s aide within Alexandria City Public Schools. She later opened her home to foster children in need and transitioned to starting and running a home daycare of her own, providing affordable childcare. Her daycare hosted her own grandchildren, close family, friends, and others who would become new lifelong friends. Her love for children was immense, and she gave it out freely. In 1990, Bitty married Roy Coles Sr., and from that union, one child was born: Roy Coles Jr. Her passion for traveling began with their honeymoon in Hawaii, and from that day forward, she planned trips and gatherings for family and friends to places near and abroad. As late as this past February she was cruising with her daughter-in-law and her parents. A woman of honesty and an unfiltered vocabulary (IYKYK), she never hesitated to speak her mind and stand her ground. And just as freely as she gave you her opinions, she would open her home, purse, and refrigerator to family and friends in need. If she saw a need and she could assist, she did. When her vision allowed, Bingo was her favorite pastime. She was the Bingo Queen! She could not only play her 12 bingo cards, but yours too! Bitty also developed a passion for porcelain dolls and amassed a collection of over 100 dolls, some from around the world. Above all else, her love for family was unwavering. She was our go-to for birth dates, ages, and updates on family members and friends because she made it her business to stay in touch with everyone! Bitty ascended to her heavenly resting place on May 5th, 2025. She is preceded in death by her parents, Mary and James Addison, and her brothers George, Jimmy and Siraaj (Charles). She leaves her loved ones to celebrate her life: her devoted husband, Roy Coles, Sr.; children – Tamela Addison, Rodney Addison (Jenny), Roy Coles, Jr. (Samantha); two sisters – Terrance Smithers (Harry) and Myra Addison Rodney; grandchildren – Alonzo and Amari Nichols, Mikayla Fraga (Xavier), Nickiya, Cardo, and Antoine Addison, Roy III and Mia Coles; one aunt – Costella Shackleford; one goddaughter/niece – Asia Graves; and god-niece – Glinda Bennett; Mother-in-love – Helen Shanklin; three brothers-in-law –David, Rufus, and Rodney Coles; one sister-in-law – Tina Coles; alongside a host of loving and devoted nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends. Her boldness, love, and unwavering strength will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her!

Mrs. Lillian Coles

April 25, 1954 - May 5, 2025

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