Malinda Coleman Gavins, 60, transitioned from labor to rest on Dec. 25, 2020, (Christmas Day) at West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh.

Malinda was born was born Feb. 16, 1960, a daughter of James and Marden Brewer Coleman. She graduated from Kennedy Catholic, Hermitage. She continued her education at Mercyhurst College, earning a degree in 1993 in social work, and completed her master's degree in education for rehabilitation counseling.

Malinda began her career under the umbrella of Mahoning County Transitional Services, which later became the Boardman Group and Compass Family and Community Services.

In 32 years of service she held several positions: vocational rehab specialist and case manager. Since 1995 Malinda served as director and program manager of Sojourner House. She was a founding member of the Women of Color conference. She also received a proclamation from Youngstown Mayor John A. McNally IV for 25 years of outstanding service.

Malinda loved and was a faithful member of Valley Baptist Church, where she served as director of the youth department, chairwoman of the women's day, served on the Women's Fellowship, budget committee, number two usher board, inspirational chorus, pastor's anniversary committee, the church anniversary committee and the behavioral health committee.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving sister, Jenneta Coleman; niece Laetitia Coleman whom she helped raise; two great-nephews, Robert Simmons Jr and Khiry Howell-Coleman; and a host of other relatives and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents.