Florence CoatesAGE: 94 • WhippanyFlorence Coates of Whippany, NJ passed away peacefully on October 11, 2016. She was at home, surrounded by family. Florence was born on July 23, 1922 in Livingston, NJ to the late Harriett McCarthy (Townley) and late Elmer McCarthy. Florence married the love of her life, the late George R. Coates, Sr. on August 8, 1945.Florence was a longtime resident of Whippany, NJ where she raised her family and enjoyed her position as librarian at the Whippanong Library for many years. When she wasn't reading or helping others do the same, Florence enjoyed crossword and jig saw puzzles, bird watching, her beautiful gardens, and spending time with her family. Whatever she did, though, Florence did it with a smile that could light up a room. She was our sunshine.Adored by so many, Florence is survived by her 4 loving children: George R. Coates, Jr. and wife, Gayle, of Fountain Hills, Arizona; Richard W. Coates of Hope, NJ; Thomas J. Coates, Sr. and his wife, Diane, of Whippany; and Deborah A. Gibbons, and her husband, William, of Whippany; as well as her 11 cherished grandchildren; and 7 precious great-grand children. A memorial service and celebration of Florence's life will be held on Saturday, October 22, 2016 at 11:00 AM at the First Presbyterian Church of Whippany, 494 State Route 10, Whippany, NJ, 07981. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation, in her memory, to the First Presbyterian Church of Whippany Memorial Fund or a donation to the Whippanong Library at www.whippanong.org