Peter Coats, 74, of Tamarac, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026, at his home. He was born on February 23, 1952, in Coral Gables, Florida, to Hall Pierre Coats and Clotilde Margarita Coats. Peter lived a life deeply rooted in service, learning, and love for family.
Peter was a devoted and generous uncle who took great joy in spoiling his nieces and nephews, as well as his grand-nieces and grand-nephews. His warmth, humor, and thoughtful presence made him a beloved figure within his family, creating lasting memories for generations.
A cherished member of his community, Peter dedicated much of his life to helping others. He served in the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in Chad, Africa—an experience that reflected his commitment to global service and cultural connection. Closer to home, he spent many years working with Catholic Charities, where he made a meaningful impact supporting the Miami community.
Peter was a lifelong student and passionate educator. He earned his degree in History and Political Science from The Johns Hopkins University and George Washington University and pursued additional graduate studies abroad, living and studying in France—an experience that further deepened his appreciation for culture and history. He went on to share this passion as a history professor at Broward College, where he inspired countless students with his knowledge and enthusiasm.
His love of history extended beyond the classroom. Peter was always happy in sharing fascinating stories and insights with his family, always eager to teach and spark curiosity in those around him. He was also an avid supporter of St Thomas Aquinas Wrestling and his nephew’s wrestling careers.
Peter will be remembered for his strong intellect, generosity, and unwavering dedication to service and education. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, knowledge, and love for his family that will continue to live on in all who know him.
Peter is survived by his sister, Claudia Coats Childress and her husband, Carl Childress; his brother, Christopher Coats and his wife, Barbara Coats; and numerous loving nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his older brother, Hubert Coats.
His nieces and nephews include Robert Wimberley (Susan), Mark Wimberley (Mindy), Margaret Gibson (Guy) and David Wimberley. He is also remembered by the next generation of nieces and nephews: Jon Wimberley (Minna), Diane Gibson Shilling (Adam), Guy Vincent Gibson, Jeffrey Wimberley, Michael Annese (Gaby), Mark Travis Wimberley, and Katie Wimberley, Shae Wimberley and Lizzy Wimberley as well as his beloved grand-nieces and grand-nephews: Evan, Owen, Avery, Aubrey, and Terra.
A Celebration of Life Service to honor Peter’s life will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026 from 1:00 PM until 3:00 PM, with Memorial Service at 2:00 PM at Boyd-Panciera, 1600 North University Drive, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33024. In lieu of flowers you may donate to a charity organization of your choice.
For those unable to attend the Service, the family is offering LIVE streaming of the Funeral Service on Saturday, March 28th, beginning at 2:00 PM. The link to attend LIVE is on the Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care Facebook page at: TRIBUTES OF A LIFETIME SERVICE LIVESTREAM
Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care
Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care
© 2026 Boyd Panciera. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Claudia Childress
March 19, 2026, 12:47 am
My “little”brother Peter will be missed by me and I know all the other members of his family and friends. I know I feel a missing piece in my life without him. His family always came first….he loved us all and always showed it. I know I will always have him in my heart and that makes it a bit easier to say goodbye
Marjorie Waterman
March 20, 2026, 9:16 pm
Oh, Margaret, Thanks so much for letting me know. I had no idea peter was ill. I’ve been keeping in touch with him on Facebook. I am so sorry for your loss.
I am not able to attend his memorial service tomorrow, but know that I will be thinking of him. He was such a good friend. Blessings to you and your family. Love, Margie (marjorie.waterman@yahoo.com)
Margaret Gibson
March 21, 2026, 5:09 am
It’s hard to put into words what my uncle meant to me, because he was so much more than family—he was a steady presence, a source of wisdom, and someone who always showed up with love for his family!
He was incredibly intelligent, with a remarkable knowledge of history across so many eras, and he shared that passion in a with his family and his students. He could make a conversation meaningful. More than that, he was a kind and loving uncle—not only to his nieces and nephews, but to his grand nieces and nephews as well.
He truly cherished time with family and was always there for every gathering. His generosity and kindness touched all of us. He made us laugh, and yes, sometimes drove us a little crazy—but that was part of what made him so special, and so deeply loved.
Peter was always there for us, and his presence will be missed more than words can express.
I love you, Uncle Peter.
Ed Maas
March 21, 2026, 12:12 pm
Peter was in our class since first grade. He was special. We loved him and know he is in heaven now.
Samuel Engerbeau
March 22, 2026, 1:15 pm
Dear Peter
To my mother’s best friend
When I say “Florida “.
Give us some news someday.
To your family many thanks.
From Sam in France with love
Ariel Toussaint Bedford
March 22, 2026, 2:46 pm
Peter, my dearest friend,
It is with such horrible pain that I learned of your passing away.
Without any warning, an important part of my youth went away with you.
So many mémoires of times spent with you : from Aix en Provence and Bayonne in France to our réunion on Hollywood beach à few years ago, accompanied by my mum and my daughter Sarah . Such an émotions homecoming after years of séparation.
My Peter, you are leaving a terrible void in me, I will miss you terrible.
My dear, dear friend may your last journey be gentle and sweet.
With all my love from France.
Ariel TOUSSAINT BEDFORD
MARY J SINCAVAGE
March 23, 2026, 7:32 pm
I will miss you old friend. We spent our junior high, high school and post high school times together. We got up to a lot of mischief and lots of laughs together. So many memories, student council dances, band, French club, teens in politics, fundraising, sneaking drinks… There will never be a friend like you again.
Barry Mowell
March 26, 2026, 1:23 pm
Peter and I worked together at Broward College for many years. He was a wonderful person and great colleague. He was one of those rare people who was always in a positive, cheerful mood and had a smile on his face. I will always remember his sense of humor and kind nature. Peter will be sorely missed by the many students whose lives he touched and everyone else who knew him. Rest in peace my friend.
Leslie (Knoblauch) Spurlock
March 27, 2026, 3:16 pm
Peter, my classmate, friend and neighbor; you were always fun to be with, even when you were helping me with homework when we were in high school. God blessed all of us who knew you.