Coles Family Genealogy & History

Richard Keith Robert Coles, born on March 26, 1962, is a renowned English writer, radio presenter, and Church of England priest. He gained fame as a multi-instrumentalist in the 1980s band The Communards, achieving three UK top-10 hits, including the best-selling single of 1986, "Don't Leave Me This Way." Coles has been a prominent figure on radio and television, co-hosting BBC Radio 4's Saturday Live from 2011 to 2023 and contributing to shows like QI and Have I Got News for You. He has served as chancellor of the University of Northampton and was awarded honorary doctorates by the University of Northampton and the University of Warwick.

Richard Coles was born in Northampton, England. His grandfather was a successful shoe manufacturer, but the family's wealth declined under his father's management. Coles was educated at Wellingborough School and the South Warwickshire College of Further Education, later attending King's College London to study Theology.

Kim Coles, born January 11, 1962, in Brooklyn, New York City, is a renowned American actress, comedian, and game show host. She gained fame as part of the original cast of "In Living Color" and for her role as Synclaire James-Jones on Fox's "Living Single," earning an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series. Coles has a diverse career, having hosted BET's "Pay It Off," appeared in shows like "Frasier" and "Six Feet Under," and participated in reality series such as "Celebrity Mole" and "Celebrity Fit Club." Her comedic talent extends to stand-up comedy, often addressing her personal experiences with weight struggles.

Kim Coles' father made history as the first black Dean of the Pratt Institute, a notable detail of her family background. She grew up in Brooklyn, New York City, and attended private Lutheran school before graduating from Brooklyn Technical High School in 1980. Her family's influence and her upbringing in New York City helped shape her career and comedic style.

Laveranues Leon Coles is a renowned former professional football player known for his role as a wide receiver in the NFL, primarily with the New York Jets. Born on December 29, 1977, Coles was a standout player who also played for the Washington Redskins and Cincinnati Bengals. Notably, he made the Pro Bowl in 2003 with the Redskins and is remembered for his significant contributions to the Jets, including participating in the memorable "Monday Night Miracle" game in 2000. His career is marked by a combination of speed and skill, making him a formidable presence on the field.

During his second stint with the Jets, Coles revealed he was a victim of childhood sexual abuse by his stepfather, whom his mother, Sirretta, had married. Following this revelation, Sirretta divorced the man, who was later imprisoned for unrelated crimes. This aspect of Coles's personal history highlights the challenges he overcame beyond his professional achievements.

Vernell Eufaye "Bimbo" Coles is a former professional basketball player renowned for his 14-season career in the NBA, playing for teams like the Miami Heat, Golden State Warriors, and Cleveland Cavaliers. A standout athlete, Coles played college basketball for the Virginia Tech Hokies, setting records for career points and assists. He represented the United States national team, earning a bronze medal in the 1988 Olympics. Coles' versatility in sports is highlighted by his selection in the Major League Baseball draft by the Philadelphia Phillies and California Angels, despite focusing on basketball.

Bimbo Coles' brother, Sidney, also pursued a basketball career, playing for Memphis and Marshall, and later became an assistant coach at Wyoming. Coles coached at Greenbrier East High School until 2021.