Agnes Margaret “Paudy” Coomes, 94, peacefully passed away December 10, 2016 with her youngest son by her side. Born August 4, 1922, she was a lifelong Louisville resident. The eldest of four girls, the sisters were affectionately coined “The Four Queens.” They shared an uncanny bond—one that was founded on familial loyalty and showcased over decades of love.
Formerly Agnes Stevens, the sprightly teenager graduated from Mercy Academy in 1940. She took St Xavier grad, Thomas Leo Coomes, to her Senior Prom. Afterward, he courted her through love letters while serving in WWII. After five years, the two married on June 16, 1945. They shared 54 abundant years together including four children.
Early in her career, Agnes was a bank teller in downtown Louisville. She later shifted paths, tending to children at the Dixie Bowl nursery. In recent years, she was the namesake and muse of her granddaughter’s jewelry business—“Forever Yours, Agnes.” Thanks to countless interviews, she relived their wartime love story, sharing it with people around the globe.
Later in life, she and Tommy enjoyed traveling with Shockey Tours to various places in the US. Of course, she collected a spoon from each locale and displayed it with her grand collection!
Agnes radiated happiness, and all who encountered her knew they’d be greeted with a smile and easy laugh. Her sharp wit and quick humor were her signature traits. She was a fiercely loyal U of L fan which was evident in her NCAA Tournament brackets. Even when the type became too small for her to see, her son, Pat, would read the teams aloud to her, with U of L always “going all the way!”
She is predeceased by her husband, Tommy, son, Robert “Bob” (Nancy), and sisters, Patricia and Libby.
She’s survived by her daughter, Barbara Coomes (Jim), and sons, Richard Coomes (Sally), and Patrick Coomes (Nanci). She’ll also be sorely missed by her nine grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, extended family, friends, and her sister, Ginny Brown—the last of “The Four Queens.”
Visitation will be Wednesday, December 21st, from 5-9 PM at Owen Funeral Home at 5317 Dixie Highway. The funeral will be the following morning at St. Peter the Apostle 5431 Johnsontown Road at 10 AM with the burial following at Bethany Cemetery.