Former Pinellas County Sheriff Gerard "Gerry" Coleman passed away Tuesday from natural causes.
- Coleman served as Sheriff from 1981 - 1989
- Instrumental in bringing 911 center to Sheriff's Office in the 1980's
- Also established first Internal Affairs unit, victim advocate program
Coleman, 78, worked for the Sheriff's Office from 1960 to 1989, starting his career as a patrol deputy.
He later became a detective, and worked his way up the ranks to lieutenant before serving as Sheriff from 1981 to 1989, when he retired.
Coleman established the department's first internal affairs unit and victim advocate program when he was sheriff. He was also instrumental in bringing the 911 center to the Sheriff's Office in the 1980's.
During his time as Sheriff, he served on the board of the Florida Sheriff's Association, Florida Sheriff Youth Ranch and the Fraternal Order of Police. He was elected President of all of those organizations.
Viewing and Prayer Services will be held Friday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at David Gross Funeral Service, 830 N. Belcher Rd., Clearwater.
Funeral Service will take place Saturday at 10 a.m. at St. Cecelia Catholic Church, 820 Jasmine Way, Clearwater.