Dearal "Van" Coble

Dearal “Van” Coble, age 81, of Seffner, FL, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2025, at Melech Hospice House in Temple Terrace, FL.

Van was born on June 24, 1944, in Stewartsville, MO, to Roy and Celesta (Allen) Coble. He was baptized as a member of the First Baptist Church of Holt and attended school in Holt and Lathrop, MO.

Van began his career with Owens-Illinois in Kansas City, MO before relocating to Florida in 1991. He later retired from the Central Baptist Christian School as the Maintenance Coordinator.

Van was known for his outgoing spirit and his remarkable ability to make anyone smile. With his fun-loving personality and sense of humor, he was truly the life of the party. He had many interests, his love for the water and boating and also including woodworking and golf, but his greatest passion was square dancing. For more than 40 years, Van dedicated himself to the square dance community, not only as a dancer but as one of the best callers around. His voice, energy, and enthusiasm brought joy, laughter, and music to countless lives, uniting people through his love of the dance.

Van deeply loved his family and took pride in every moment spent together. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.

Van was preceded in death by his parents, and his siblings, J.D. Coble, Claudine Dray, Glenda Jackson, Gerald Coble, Maryln Dray, Jimmy Coble, and Helen Ivy.

He is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Cheryl, of the home; his children, Cyndi (Phil) Lawter of Kearney, MO, and Travis Coble of Holiday, FL; his stepchildren, Joey Campbell of Seffner, FL, and Becky (Josh) O’Donnal of Seffner, FL; his grandchildren, Ryan (Whitney) Lawter of Kansas City, MO, Saphira Coble and Azalyn Coble of Dunedin, FL, Devin Campbell of Seffner, FL, Cecilia Bales of Lakeland, FL, Jayden Campbell of Riverview, FL, and Riley Campbell of Seffner, FL; five great-grandchildren, Macklin, Remi, Macy, and Rhodes Lawter, Finnegan Duncan.

Sisters; Maxine Chilson of Kansas City, KS, Judy Moore of Holt, MO and Ann O’Dell of Kearney, MO and many nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Van will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and the square dance community who cherished him for his laughter, his music, and the joy he brought wherever he went.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Antioch Cemetery in care of the funeral home. A service celebrating Van's life will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday, October 23rd, 2025, at Stith Funeral Home in Lathrop. The family will receive friends one-hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Private graveside service at Antioch Cemetery, in Holt, Missouri. Arrangements entrusted to the care and direction of Stith Funeral Home in Lathrop. (816) 740-4658. www.stithfamilyfunerals.com

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