Vicki Coon

With profound sadness and enduring love, we announce the passing of Vicki Kelly Coon, age 73, on October 2, 2026, in Bainbridge, Georgia. Vicki was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, family member, friend, and cherished presence in the lives of all who knew her.

Vicki Sue (Kelly) Coon was born on April 22, 1953, in Altus, Oklahoma, to the Reverend Keith Kimble Kelly and Delta Fern Kelly. From an early age, Vicki possessed an adventurous spirit and a desire to experience the world and connect with others. While in the 11th grade, she traveled with Up With People, an experience that became an important part of her youth, and she graduated from Up With People High School. Vicki attended Florida State University (1972), where she met the love of her life, Byron R. “Pete” Coon, and married on July 26, 1975.

Vicki earned bachelor degrees in Accounting, Marketing, and Finance, as well as a Master of Business Administration. She devoted more than 40 years to her career as an accountant. Vicki retired from the State of Florida Department of Children and Families in 2005 and upon accepting a position at Engelhard (BASF) Corporation in Attapulgus, Georgia, she and Pete moved to Bainbridge.

She was an active member of the Living Waters Worship Center in Ocala, Florida where she faithfully participated in women's ministry, sang in the choir, and gave generously of her time through volunteer programs. Her faith was more than something she professed; it was reflected in the way she lived, served others, loved her family, and faced life's joys and challenges.
As a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she treasured her family and the generations that followed her. Those who loved Vicki will remember the sound of her laughter, the warmth of her presence, the things that brought her joy, and the many small ways she showed how deeply she cared. They will remember a woman whose life was guided by faith, strengthened by family, and enriched by service to others.

Vicki is survived by her husband, Dr. Byron R. “Pete” Coon of Bainbridge, Georgia; her daughter, Amanda Winden (Rachel) of Orange Park, Florida; her son, Dr. Matthew Richard Coon of Jacksonville, Florida; her brothers, Dr. Ben Kelly of St. Petersburg, Florida, and Keith Kelly (Beverly) of Dallas, Texas; 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister and brother in law, Patsy Kelly Hemphill and Rev. Gene Hemphill; her brother, Lt Col Michael A Kelly, and niece Melissa Lynn (Kelly) West.

A Celebration of Life memorial service will be scheduled at a later date, allowing family members and friends time to travel and gather together to honor Vicki, celebrate her remarkable life, share treasured memories, and give thanks for the many years they were blessed to have her in their lives. In lieu of flowers and cards, family, friends and loved ones are encouraged to support St. Jude Children’s hospital.