Extracted from The Herald (Everett, WA)
Saturday, April 20, 2013

Helen Alene Coon

Helen Alene Coon, age 79, of Lynnwood, Washington passed away on Thursday, April 18, 2013 following a long illness. Alene was born December 24, 1933 in Sikes, Louisiana.

She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Rev. Donald J. Coon; three children, Michael (Debbie), Danita Hurst (Mike) and Rev. Jonathan Coon (Tammy); 21 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.

Alene is preceded in death by her parents, Joel and Marguerite Rolen of Sikes, Louisiana; one son, Stephen (Sandy); and one grandson, Justin.

To many who knew and loved her, Alene was known as “Elder Sister Coon,” referring to her larger-than-life role over many decades as Pastor's Wife to Rev. D.J. Coon, who founded Calvary Apostolic Tabernacle in Lynnwood and served as Pastor until his retirement 12 years ago. She labored faithfully for many years beside her husband - a model of Christian womanhood, leading by example and consistently living out the Gospel. All who knew Sister Coon understood that the guiding passion of her life was her love for God, her husband, her family and the Church. She was a woman of prayer, and an apt teacher of women and children in the ways of God. The influence of her Godly example has spanned four generations, and today a family of 47, and a vibrant Church family as well, are due in large part to Sister Coon's life of sacrificial giving.

Sister Coon's home was a well-known beacon of warmth and hospitality, always open and welcoming. She was a legendary cook; entertaining endlessly and making all who visited their home feel loved and spoiled. Her family and minister's families nationwide as well, have rich memories of time spent around the Coon table.

Sister Coon's going leaves a vast emptiness, but in fact, she lives on and on…in the myriad lives she touched. We are comforted.

A celebration service will be held on Sunday, April 21st, at 12:00 p.m. at Calvary Apostolic Tabernacle, 20901 44th Ave. W, Lynnwood, Washington.