John Bertram “Bert” Coble, age 94, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife and children. Just weeks earlier, Bert celebrated his 94th birthday with his beloved wife, Joan, along with his children and grandchildren—an occasion that reflected the deep importance of family throughout his life.

Bert was born in Washington, D.C., the first child of Benita Legere Coble and Jacob Henry Coble. As the oldest of seven children, he grew up helping care for his five brothers and one sister, a role he embraced with devotion. He often spoke fondly of his mother’s kindness and the close bond he shared with his siblings, frequently staying connected by watching football or golf together over the phone.

Bert proudly served his country in both the U.S. Navy Reserves from 1949 to 1953 and the United States Army from 1954 to 1956, where he was stationed in Alaska. He took great pride in his service as an Army Ski Trooper. Following his military service, he returned to the University of Maryland, College Park, where he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

On June 20, 1959, Bert married the love of his life, Joan Marie Leahy. Together, they built a life centered on love, family, and shared experiences.

Bert’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, cherishing every opportunity to be present in their lives. Whether traveling hours to attend a sporting event, a musical performance, or a school activity, Bert never missed a chance to support and celebrate his grandchildren.

A lifelong enthusiast of World War II history, Bert was an active member of a history club in The Villages, Florida. He enjoyed watching classic war films and was especially fond of movies starring John Wayne. In his leisure time, Bert could often be found relaxing on the dunes with friends or playing shuffleboard with his men’s club.

Bert was known as a gifted storyteller. He delighted family and friends with stories of history, memories of his beloved horse Cheyenne, and, most proudly, tales of his grandchildren. His warmth, humor, and deep love for others will be remembered by all who knew him.

Bert also gave back to his community through his love of dogs. He registered two of his dogs as emotional support animals and spent time visiting hospitals and nursing homes in Annapolis, Maryland, and The Villages, Florida, bringing comfort and companionship to many.

Bert is survived by his devoted wife, Joan Leahy Coble; his daughter, Catherine Coble Dorey (Bradley), and their children Claire, Carolyn, and Emilee; his son, David Edward Coble (Leslie), and their children Scott, Thomas, and Amy; and his son, Lawrence Andrew Coble (Katherine), and their children Mary Caitlin (Timothy) and great-grandchildren Eleanor, Caroline, and Afton; Timothy; Peter (Gianna) and great-grandchild Charlie; Anna; Sean; and Ian. He is also survived by his brothers, Robert and Patrick.

He was preceded in death by his beloved sister, Ellen, and his brothers, Thomas, Joseph, and Michael.

A visitation will be held on Friday, May 29, at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Bethany Beach, Delaware, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM. Interment will take place at 2:00 PM at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro, Delaware.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bert’s memory to GRREAT – Golden Retriever Rescue, Education and Training, Inc., P.O. Box 190, Merrifield, VA 22116, or online at https://grreat.org.

Bert’s life was defined by his love for family, his service to his country, and his kindness to others. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion, warmth, and cherished memories that will live on in all who knew and loved him.