" I will work until my day is done"

And so it was that God saw fit to transition Michael Anthony Coghill from his earthly home to his heavenly one on Sunday, May 20, 2018 to work no more but to be with Him in paradise.

Over the course of Michael's blessed life, he touched many lives with his quiet and giving manner: a "Gentle Giant". More importantly, though he was a devoted friend who cherished his family.

Following his graduation from Caroline High School in 1980 he attended Roanoke University College where he received his Associates degree.

Upon graduation, Michael began his work career with the federal government as a Supervisory Contract Specialist with Fish and Wildlife. He worked with them for 34 years until his health began to fail. Even though there were days when he did not feel well, he would still drive to work or work from home. Just recently, while in the hospital, he attempted to work. That's dedication!

In 1990, Michael was placed on dialysis where he remained for 13 years. Despite this setback, his eternal faith never wavered. He continued to work and with his determination and God's help to succeed, he returned to school. He obtained his degree from Strayer College in 1997, with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems.

In 2003, God blessed him yet again with a kidney for which he was truly grateful and profoundly thankful. Michael began playing for many church choirs and became a trustee at First Baptist. His intent on being devoted and accommodating was seen by all. Michael never stopped.

He survived two heart attacks, and, ironically, he had his second one while playing the piano at a funeral. Surely he was in pain, but yet, chose God's work over his own health concerns! Truly he believed that what he was doing was more important in God's eyes.

Michael cherished his family. He was very fond of his nephews, Alvin, Tony, Taft Jr, Walker "LT", as well as his niece, Donna. They all looked up to him not only as an uncle, but as a brother and friend. Michael's brother, Taft was his backbone, he was always there, providing comfort and a loving assurance that he would be all right and that all things were possible through Christ. Michael enjoyed a good time with family and friends. Cookouts, parties, or just stopping by to chat were some of his most precious moments. Many of his friends would always look forward to his tasty punch mixtures, pound cake or cookies.

He not only played for his church, but additionally, he also enjoyed playing at several other churches in the community. He would never say no to a request. If one of his choirs was having an event, he would make sure he provided food. Just two weeks ago, while very sick, he made sure the church had food for their bake sale-always thinking of others before himself.

We all know that despite his illness, Michael was thankful to God for his life and wanted to share, help, and serve humankind to the fullest.

He leaves to cherish his legacy, a devoted friend, Ronald Monroe, Fredericksburg, Virginia, brother Taft Coghill, Sr. Bowling Green, Virginia, four nephews; Alvin Coghill (Margaret) of Chesterfield, Virginia, Anthony Coghill (A'Dan) of Fredericksburg, Virginia, Taft Coghill, Jr. (Talya) of Ruther Glen,Virginia and Walker "LT", Childs; one niece, Donna Moffett (Clyde) of Ruther Glen,Virginia. He has extended family, the Chambers and Monroe Family from Fredericksburg, Virginia. Special friend,like a sister, Gwendolyn Foster, a host of cousins, other relatives and friends.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, May 26, 2018 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 9262 Guinea Station Road, Woodford, Virginia 22580 with a Christian Wake from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The Final assembly will be held on Sunday, may 27, 2018, 2:00 p.m. at Third Mount Zion Baptist Church, 9132 Fredericksburg Turnpike, Woodford, Virginia 22580 with a viewing one hour prior to the service.  Rev. Dr. Carl Bentley will deliver the eulogy.

Interment will follow on Tuesday, May 29, 2018 , 10:00 a.m. at Sunset Memorial Park, 3702 Loren Drive, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22580.