Hebrews 6:10—God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.

Victor Sebastian Coates, affectionately known as Vic, departed this earthly life on Monday, October 31, 2022, at his home in Caroline County, Virginia. Vic was born on February 24, 1961. The fourth of five children born to the late Walter and Cora Coates, he was preceded in death by his sister, Janice Coates, and his brother, Christopher Coates.

At an early age, Vic was baptized and became a member of Beulah Baptist Church (Spotsylvania, VA), where he attended Sunday school, Vacation Bible School, and other church functions. He was not shy in expressing his love for God and knowledge of the Bible. In fact, Vic’s Bible was located right in front of him as he transitioned to his heavenly life.

Vic’s intellect and skills were exceptional. He graduated with the Caroline High School class of 1979, playing various sports and singing in talent shows, and went on to attend Virginia State University. Further, Vic gained employment within several prominent places, such as IBM (Manassas, VA), General Motors (Spotsylvania, VA), and the U.S. National Park Service (Triangle, VA). Vic was so confident in his abilities that he would tell employers, “I will not give 100% to this job, but 110%.” He was also the community mechanic. Additionally, and without formal mechanical training, Vic could perform various complex vehicle repairs, including removing and replacing car motors; he even spent a great deal of time working alongside his father as a mechanic for the family business, Coates Trucking, Inc. Vic also performed electrical, HVAC, and other trade work for many family members and friends.

Vic was extremely kindhearted, a mentor to many, and had a tremendously giving spirit. Vic would give away the “last dime” he had to help anyone in need. Leveraging his talent as an excellent cook, during the Christmas season, Vic would go from house to house, passing out country ham. His optimistic outlook on life was ever present, and no matter what obstacles came his way, he always moved beyond them and looked to the future with excitement and determination. In his later years, he would frequently share his testimony, often mentioning the desire to write an inspirational autobiography. Vic was firm in his beliefs, strong in his convictions, and stood for what he believed was right, even if it meant standing alone.

Vic leaves one daughter, Tenesha Lewis (Austin), to cherish the memories they shared together. Beyond “Dad” being Tenesha’s first word, Vic was often her best play buddy, spending time winning video games and taking joyrides, and he was one of the main people who fostered her intellect via engaging conversation throughout her childhood. As adults, they talked nearly every day about the latest movies, cars, sports, recipes, and the wild antics of her dog Roman. If anyone talked to Vic regarding his daughter, they would quickly realize that she was the apple of his eye, as well as his pride and joy.

To carry on his memory, Vic also leaves a large family, including: one grandchild, Jarell Lewis; a devoted brother, Donald (Carolyn); an adoring sister, Angela; a sister-in-law, Linda; nephews Damion, Toland, Dominic, Koyar (Yvette), Tre’sor, and Kaeden; aunts Lelia Carter, Gloria Chapman, Loren Brooks, Laverne Baptiste, and Carol Bond (Earl); uncles Floyd (Audrey), Otis (Carol), and Allandus Coates; five great nephews; four great nieces; and a host of additional, loved family and friends.