Robert Morgan Coleman

Robert Morgan Coleman, 90, of Travelers Rest, SC, entered his heavenly home on October 13, 2024. Born in Travelers Rest, Robert was the husband of his wife of 70 years, Elizabeth "Lib" Coleman. He is survived by his daughters, Deborah Batson (Dennis) and Nancy Plumblee (Jeff), and his son, Bobby Coleman. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Scotty Batson, Stacie Stegall (Rusty), Sandi Sternburg (James), Sara Howard (Aaron), Nichole Livengood, Jeff Plumblee, II (Leah), Ashley Hanks (Tom), Brooke Coleman, Alexis Barton, and 16 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Ruth Coleman; his sister, JoAnn Coleman; and his son, Henry Coleman. From a young age, Robert's passion for electronics was evident. As a Boy Scout, he learned Morse code, igniting a fascination with technology that would shape his life. Much to his mother's dismay, as a teenager his curiosity led him to disassemble the family's new television, which he successfully reassembled. Another of his teenage feats was building a receiving station at his childhood home capable of picking up signals from the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). After attending the University of South Carolina, Robert returned home to pursue his passion for electronics. A true pioneer, Robert often drew intricate plans for his own printed electronic circuit boards, which he designed and used in many of his projects. In the 1960s, he constructed a large satellite antenna in his front yard, allowing him to receive signals from astronauts as they orbited the Earth—an extraordinary accomplishment for the time. He was also one of the early innovators in the home satellite television industry, building one of the first satellite receiving systems. Robert was a charter member of the Society of Private and Commercial Earth Stations (SPACE), contributing to advancements in satellite communications technology. His forward-thinking designs and innovations truly helped to bridge the gap between early technology and the sophisticated systems we enjoy now. Throughout his career, Robert maintained radio systems for businesses across Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. He served as Chief Engineer for several radio and television stations and was known for his willingness to scale towers to install critical antennas. Alongside his wife, Lib, Robert co-founded the first cable television company in Travelers Rest. Their company would later be sold and merged into what is now one of the leading cable providers in the Upstate and beyond. Robert was a man of vision and innovation beyond his professional work. He played an instrumental role in organizing the North Greenville Volunteer Fire Department and served as one of its earliest Fire Chiefs. He was honored to be appointed by the governor of South Carolina as Fire Commissioner, dedicating his time and expertise to public safety. He was a Scoutmaster, guiding young scouts on their own journeys of growth and learning. Robert was an Amateur Radio Operator (K4AWB). He was a member of the South Carolina Baptist Disaster Relief Organization, where he set up communications during times of disaster. He developed the Pleasant Valley subdivision in Travelers Rest, helping shape the future of his hometown community. He was a member of Foothills Baptist Church in Travelers Rest. Though Robert’s career achievements were numerous, his greatest accomplishment was his family, including his four children, nine grandchildren, and sixteen great-grandchildren. He also valued the time spent with his many nieces, nephews, and cousins, always looking forward to family gatherings. The family will receive friends Tuesday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at The Howze Mortuary. Funeral services will be 3:00 p.m. Wednesday at Foothills Baptist Church. Burial to follow at Enoree Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Scotty Batson, Jeff Plumblee, II, Rusty Stegall, James Sternberg, Aaron Howard, Jim Morgan, Dan Lindsey, and Bob Miller. The family will be at the home.

Robert Morgan Coleman

November 17, 1933 - October 13, 2024