Obituary: Russell Coit

Russell Coit, of Longboat Key, died Aug. 1.

Mr. Coit grew up in Clearwater and lived for more than 20 years on Longboat Key with his wife, Patti.

Mr. Coit served in the U.S. Navy as a pilot on the USS Enterprise aircraft carrier from 1960 to 1967 and went on to have a 31-year career with Delta Air Lines; he retired as an international captain. In retirement, he enjoyed the golf course and general aviation. He is remembered as a gentle soul with a quick wit.

Mr. Coit is survived by his wife, Patti; children, Whitney Gray and Chuck Coit; sister, Mary Walker; four grandchildren; and three step-grandchildren.

A visitation will take place from 10 a.m. to noon Aug. 9, at Toale Brothers Colonial Chapel, 40 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota; a service will follow at noon. A celebration of life will be held after the service from 1 to 3 p.m. at Misty Creek Country Club, 8454 Misty Creek Drive, Sarasota. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of your choice.