Vita Gale Coman

Vita “Gale” Coman (Holden) of Brentwood, Maryland, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great‑grandmother, and sister, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 23rd, at the age of 69. Born on October 9, 1956, in Washington, D.C., to the late Vernon and Ruth Holden, she was raised in a loving home alongside her eight siblings — Joyce, Darlene, Cheryl, Sheila, Guy, Vernon, Frank, and James — and spent most of her life in the Brentwood community.

Gale held many jobs over the years, but the role she cherished most began in 1976 when she became a mother to Mike, and again in 1978 with the birth of Allen. In 1983, Gale was introduced to the love of her life, Michael, by her own mother, and from that moment on they were inseparable. Gale and Michael were married on April 9, 1984, and would have celebrated 42 wonderful years of marriage this April. Their beautiful love story has been an inspiration to all who knew them.

Gale embraced life with joy and warmth. She loved to dance and never turned down a party. The beach was her happy place. She adored animals and could always be found caring for the neighborhood’s stray cats. Her heart was kind, generous, and always open to anyone in need. Above all, she dedicated her life to her family. She treasured being a grandmother and great‑grandmother, and she was endlessly proud of her sons and the families they built. The space left by her absence is immeasurable.

Gale was predeceased by her parents, Vernon and Ruth Holden; her brothers, Guy and Vernon; and her sister, Sheila. She is survived by her loving husband, Michael Coman; her children, Michael “Mike” Holden (and wife, Laura) and Allen Holden (and wife, Nikki); Michael’s older children, Debbie, Nick, and Kenny; her five grandchildren, Allen Holden Jr., Amanda Holden, Jordan Holden, Landon Holden, and Aidan Holden; and her four great‑grandchildren, Mia Holden (6), Westin Holden (4), Eden Holden (1), and Xavier Grijalva (1). She is also survived by her sisters Joyce, Darlene, and Cheryl; her brothers Frank and James; and many beloved extended family members and friends.

Gale’s love, laughter, and gentle heart will be forever missed.

Visitation will take place at Gasch’s Funeral Home on Thursday, April 2nd, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., followed immediately by a service from 12:15 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. A reception celebrating Gale’s life will be held at the American Legion Colmar Manor Post 131 at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gale’s name to the ASPCA or the Vietnam Veterans of America, two causes close to her heart.