Obituary of Francis Chatham Coverdale

Francis Chatham Coverdale passed away peacefully on June 18, 2025. He was born on June 6, 1943, in Baltimore, Maryland, and spent his formative years growing up at East Creek Manor in Eldora, New Jersey. Francis attended Middle Township Elementary School and graduated from Middle Township High School. He attained an Associates Degree in Criminal Justice from the Burlington County Community College. Francis was known for his unwavering spirit and dedication to his country. He enlisted in the United States Army during a pivotal time in history, serving in Germany when the Berlin Wall was being constructed. His experiences during this time shaped his character and instilled in him a deep sense of pride and commitment to service. After his honorable discharge from the Army, Francis continued his commitment to public service by becoming a corrections officer for the State of New Jersey. He devoted over 25 years to this profession, ultimately rising through the ranks to retire as a lieutenant. His leadership and dedication made a significant impact in the lives of those he worked with and served. After retiring from corrections, Francis continued serving the public by working for the Township of Dennis, providing maintenance and groundskeeping for the township and recreation center. Work was never just a job for Francis. No matter where he worked he gave it his all. Francis is remembered as someone who kept cool under pressure, who was there when you needed advice, and who set a great example for everyone around. Sure, there were awards and successes, but what really mattered were the quiet things: helping out a colleague, giving a pep talk, or just being there when someone needed a friend. His reputation as a fair and wise person didn’t happen overnight—it was the result of years spent working hard and caring about others. In 1965, Francis met and married the love of his life, Kathleen Errickson. Together, they built a beautiful family, welcoming two children into their lives. On July 9th, they would have celebrated 65 years of marriage, a testament to their enduring love and partnership. Tragically, Kathleen passed away on January 10, 2025, leaving a profound void in the hearts of all who knew her. An avid amateur photographer, Francis always had his camera with him on family outings and vacations, capturing precious moments and memories that his friends and family will treasure forever. His passion for photography reflected his appreciation for life's beauty and the importance of family. Francis was not only a soldier and officer but also a compassionate individual who touched the lives of many. He carried a zest for life and a kind-hearted nature that endeared him to friends and family alike. He will be remembered for his warm smile, quick wit, and the stories he shared about his adventures. He was predeceased by his mother, Flora Meyer and step-father Roland Cake, his brother Frederick Coverdale and sister-in-law Rebecca, half-brother John Smith and his wife Ada, half-brother Robert Smith and his wife Ann, and his beloved wife Kathleen Coverdale (nee Errickson). He is survived by his two children Darwin Coverdale (Diane Coulter) and Heather Anne Runyon (Mark), two grandchildren Emily and Gladiolus Seningen, his brother Walter Coverdale (Maryanne) and his sister Carolyn Davis, who will cherish his memory and the legacy of love and courage he leaves behind. A small memorial service will be held on Tuesday, July 8th at 2:00pm at the Cape May County Veteran’s Cemetery at 127 Crest Haven Road in Cape May Court House, NJ, where family and friends are invited to celebrate his life and honor his contributions to his country and community. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Francis's name to the Wounded Warrior Project, reflecting his commitment to service and community. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him.