Jacob Lee-Alexander Coates

Jacob Lee-Alexander Coates, 29, of Mount Carmel, IL, formerly of Palestine, IL, passed away on March 21, 2025. Born on November 3, 1995, in Robinson, IL, Jacob arrived in this world with a story already attached. According to family lore, he was born with a tail—a detail that may or may not be true, but was too good not to repeat. Jacob loved a good story, and he’d tell it so well you’d stop caring about the facts.

He grew up in Palestine, where his childhood was filled with late-night laughter, video games, and a deep, lifelong bond with his best friend, Andrew Gray. They were inseparable—gaming buddies, co-conspirators, and brothers in all but blood. That friendship stood the test of time, evolving from PlayStation marathons into a steady connection that anchored Jacob in a changing world. In 2014, Jacob graduated from Palestine High School. Schoolwork wasn’t exactly his passion, but learning? That was a different story. He was sharp—brilliant, even—but allergic to hustle. He once woke up early, pretending to go to college classes, only to sneak off to the park and take a nap. The ruse held until the college mailed a letter home. Jacob always knew how to play his cards—and somehow, he never got grounded.

He worked a handful of jobs over the years, most recently with Toyota Boshoku through StaffQuick. But work never defined Jacob. He was a homebody who found joy in the little things—his books, his games, his family. He loved fantasy stories, long naps, and witty debates where he could prove (again) that he knew everything. He didn’t live to impress; he lived to enjoy.

Jacob was endlessly loyal—especially to his mom, Sarah. With his dad, Robert, away much of the week for work, Jacob often stepped up. He helped with errands, took her to appointments, and quietly became the one she leaned on. He was also a dedicated brother—each sibling holding a unique place in his heart. He was a rock for Josy, the calm voice of reason when things felt chaotic, helping him keep a level head in times of stress. And for Isaiah, Jacob was a quiet kind of hero—the reason he picked up a guitar, wanting to follow in his big brother’s footsteps.

Jacob was a walking contradiction—and somehow, that made perfect sense. Not particularly humble, but deeply supportive. A little lazy, but completely reliable. He may not have been one to leap into action when the lawn needed mowing, but he’d always show up in the end, asking, “Need any help?” Needless to say, he lived life at his own pace—slowly, but with intention . He didn’t chase the spotlight, but when he entered a room, he lit it up. That glow hasn’t gone out—it lives on in the warmth of our memories, in the stories we tell, and in the way he made us feel. Jacob Coates left a mark that doesn’t fade with time. It stays, like a light left on for us to find our way back to him.

He is survived by his parents, Robert & Sarah (Cooley) Coates; by his siblings, Josy Coates, Emily Coates & John Shear, Belle & Mikey Roberts, and Isaiah Coates; by three nieces, Keeva, Kylee, and Ophelia; by numerous beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins; and by his best friend, Andrew Gray. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Charles & Barbara Cooley and Robert & Mary Coates.

A time of visitation will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 29th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 p.m., with Pastor Paul Gray officiating. During the service, friends and family will be invited to share their favorite memories and reflections on Jacob's life. For those unable to attend in person, a live stream will be available at www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream .

Memorials may be made to his memorial fund, with checks payable to "Goodwine Funeral Homes." Memorial envelopes will be available at the funeral home.