It is with deep sorrow and profound love that we share the passing of Coda Tolbert, a cherished father, grandfather, parrain, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. With poise and strength, Coda went to his eternal home with the Lord on Thursday, August 21st at the age of 80.

Born on July 5th, 1945 in Bogalusa, Louisiana, Coda grew up with a strong foundation of faith and a deep commitment to serving others. Known for his generosity, righteousness, and unwavering devotion to God, he lived a life that reflected dignity, integrity, and compassion.

Coda built a legacy of love not only within his family but also within his community. His charismatic spirit and natural charm drew people to him, and his words often uplifted and inspired many. Whether through his acts of kindness, his wisdom, or his faithful service, Coda touched countless lives and left a mark that will not be forgotten.

He is survived by his loving and faithful wife, Catherine, and children Sonya, Kyide, Kimberly, and Kristina, brother Leo, sister Ida, grandchildren Courtney, Kierra, Cara, Kaylin, Amare, Kaysan, Devin, Niko, great-grandchildren . He was preceded in death by his son Coda, brothers Isaiah and Mark, and sisters Bernadine, Leona, and Mary.

A devoted member of St. Mary’s Baptist Church, he served faithfully as a handyman, cook, event organizer, a member of the Board of Trustees, Chaplain of the Deacon ministry, and so much more. The church was not just a building to him, it was his extended family, and he poured his heart into it with tireless dedication.

Coda was a hard-working man who spent 32 years as a machine operator for Kansas City Southern Railroad, where he became known for his precision, expertise, and commitment to excellence. Even after retirement, his work ethic never slowed; he poured that same passion into his family, community, and the outdoors he loved so dearly.

A man of many talents and boundless energy, Coda found joy in gardening, hunting, fishing, cooking, singing, and caring for his animals. He especially loved big family gatherings, where he never hesitated to fire up that propane tank and fry fish for everyone, bringing people together with food, laughter, and love.

Coda’s generosity knew no limits. Anyone in need could come to his door, and he would always answer with open hands and an open heart. Whether by offering help, sharing his garden harvest, or using his skills to provide landscaping services for those who couldn’t afford them. He was a true servant-leader, giving of himself without expectations.

Those who knew Coda would describe him as everything. He was “the man”: charismatic, charming, and filled with a glowing personality that drew people in. He never met a stranger, and his life reflected his unwavering faith, his devotion to his family, and his love for his wife. A man after God’s own heart, Coda’s greatest wish would be to be remembered first for his faith, and then for the way he faithfully served those around him.

Honored to serve as pallbearers for Coda are Rupert "D'mone" Follins, Marcus Whitlock, Gerald Bolden, Devin Bolden, Kyide Tolbert, and Brian Whitlock carrying him to his final rest with love and respect. Honorary pallbearers will be Dale Dyson, D'Andre Dyson, Murphy LeBlanc, Bobby Holmes, and Leo Tolbert, who stand in loving tribute to Coda’s life and legacy.