Charles Lynn Coultas

In Loving Memory of 

Charles Lynn Coultas August 9, 1928 — September 1, 2024 Charles Lynn Coultas, born on August 9, 1928, in Bunker Hill, Illinois, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2024, in Tallahassee, Florida. 

He was the youngest child of Charles Rufus and Ethel (Garst) Coultas. Charles was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, teacher, and friend who touched many lives through his dedication, compassion, and unwavering faith. Charles, affectionately known as "Lynn”, was preceded in death by his siblings Virginia Sharp, Marvene Volk, and Bruce Coultas. 

He is survived by his beloved wife Virginia (Ginny), devoted children David (Maryann), Charles (Sally), Steven (Carol), and Peter (Cindy). He also leaves behind nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish his memory and the legacy he built. 

On December 27, 1952, Lynn married the love of his life, Virginia (Ginny), and together they embarked on a journey filled with love, adventure, and shared purpose for over 71 years. Their union was a testament to their enduring love and commitment, serving as a pillar of strength and support for their family. Lynn's academic achievements were remarkable. He earned his Bachelor of Science from the University of Illinois, Master’s from Iowa State, and PhD from the University of Minnesota. Professionally, Lynn made significant contributions to the fields of agricultural science and wetland ecology. He worked for USAID in Ghana, Standard Fruit Company in Honduras, and Baileys Nursery in Minnesota while pursuing his PhD. In the mid-1960s, after receiving his doctorate, he accepted a position at Florida A&M University (FAMU) and moved his family to Tallahassee, Florida. Over the next 15 years, he passionately dedicated himself to teaching and research. In the early 1980s, Lynn and Ginny expanded their horizons by working in Haiti, Zambia, Saudi Arabia, Belize, and South Africa. He maintained his connection with FAMU through ongoing research and scientific publications, covering topics from Ghanaian soils to sea-level rise. Lynn was a man of deep faith and conviction. Though his earthly affiliations ranged from Baptist to non-denominational to, most recently, Quaker, his commitment to Christ was unwavering. He demonstrated this commitment in various ways, including joining a Christian Peacemakers team to Iraq ahead of the first Persian Gulf War in protest. Koinonia Farm in Americus, Georgia, held a special place in Lynn's heart. He organized and worked with Habitat for Humanity in the Havana/Tallahassee area, reflecting his dedication to community service and humanitarian efforts. 

The Coultas Farm in Havana, described by him as "the most beautiful place on earth," became a sanctuary for many. In 1969, Lynn and Ginny invited their Tallahassee church group to bring Camp COCO to the farm, providing countless children with experiences in crafts, nature, games, and Christian community that they might never have known in their urban setting. Lynn's life was characterized by his dual passions for teaching and farming. He wore professorial elbow pads during his years at FAMU and donned his overalls later in life. Always a dad and teacher, he left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Quaker Friends Meeting in Tallahassee, Habitat for Humanity, or Koinonia Farm in his honor. Though the funeral service will be private, the family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have supported them during this difficult time. 

A special message from the family: "Mom (Ginny) is in a place where she cannot remember daily events, such as a visit or a card from an old friend, but nonetheless, she appreciates the love and time that it takes to do these things. As Dad's comrade in arms in their 71 years of exploits, we ask that you continue to reach out to her in whatever way is possible from where you are in life." Charles Lynn Coultas was a beacon of light, whose legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire and guide us. He will be dearly missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. 

Faith Funeral home & Crematory (6972 Florida / Georgia Hwy. Havana, FL 32333) is in charge of arrangements.