Alma Marie Smith-Coates was born April 12, 1920. She was the second child (and only daughter), of three children born to the union of Sebron and Mattie Smith in Austin, Texas. Her Parents, and two brothers Lawyer and John Willie Smith preceded her in death.

Alma grew up and attended school in Austin Texas, upon graduating from High School, Alma relocated to Chicago, Illinois where she resided with her oldest brother.

Alma accepted Christ at an early age.

Alma met and married William H. Coates. To that union, five children were born; Sandra, Ricardo (Ricky), Stephanie, Lonnie and Anthony (Husband, Daughter, Sandra and two sons Anthony and Lonnie) preceded her in death.

Alma worked for the Ambassador Hotel for fifteen years and retired in the Mid 80's. After retirement, Alma began to baby-sit her Grandchildren. Upon the passing of her Daughter, (Sandra), Alma, being the strong and courageous woman that she was, took in, cared for and raised two of her grandchildren. Alma was a loving and devoted Mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She had so much love for her family. Alma was always willing to do for others without asking for anything in return. She most certainly had a heart to serve!

Alma was always full of life, loved to dress (Ms Prissy), loved her music and loved to dance. Alma was very strong-willed. In December of 2011 she became ill. At 91 years of age, she was still determine to "fight a good fight". On Wednesday February, 15, 2012, the lovely Alma Marie Smith-Coates, decided to turn her fight over to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Alma leaves to cherish her memories, children; Ricardo (Deborah) and Stephanie (Vincent); One godson, Tony Powell (Kay), Nine grandchildren; Reggie (Felicia), Dana, Dominick (Marquita), Marcus, Lonzell, Mecca, Terrion, Danielle and Michael. Twelve Great grandchildren; Bernard, Jessica, Nakela, Kaharie, Santaneha, Tatiana, JaJada, LaVesha, Alana, DaVonte, Dayshaun, and Dae'Jorell, nieces; Barbara, Fran (Kenny), Shalonda (Pat) Nephew; (Teensie); and a host of relatives and friends.

Alma Marie Smith-Coates: A Life Worth Celebrating, ...

Well Done Alma .... Well Done!