Guthrie lost a beloved figure this week with the passing of Don Coffin, a man whose legacy shaped the very fabric of the community. Coffin, surrounded by family, passed away on Monday at 92, leaving behind a legacy of service, passion, and vision that will be remembered for generations.
Born on November 5, 1932, on a rural homestead in north Logan County, Coffin spent his early years cultivating the land and raising vegetables alongside his family. This humble beginning laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to hard work and community betterment—a legacy he passed on to his children.
Coffin’s career was marked by an unwavering drive to uplift Guthrie and its residents. He served as a proud FFA school teacher, a State Representative for Logan County from 1967 to 1970, a Logan County court clerk, a banker, and an entrepreneur. One of his most cherished ventures was owning the restaurant Granny Had One, famous for its homemade breads and baked goods, which became a local favorite.
A passionate advocate for the arts, Coffin co-founded The Pollard Theatre, spearheading its renovation in 1984 and fostering a love of the arts that enriched Guthrie’s cultural identity. His leadership extended to serving as board president of the Guthrie Arts and Humanities Council, where he helped bring world-renowned performers to Guthrie.
Former Pollard Theatre Producing Artistic Director W. Jerome Stevenson recalled Coffin’s impact: “He was the quintessential advocate of the arts. Don never tried to direct the artistic vision for the theatre; instead, he championed innovation and artistry, providing a stage for artists to create.”
In 2012, Guthrie Mayor Chuck Burtcher declared April 10th as Don Coffin Day, a testament to Coffin’s enduring influence on the community. His dedication to restoring Guthrie’s downtown to its historic charm and enhancing local tourism helped transform the city into a beacon of Oklahoma’s territorial and cultural history.
Beyond his many accomplishments, Coffin was a devoted family man and a man of deep faith. His wisdom, guidance, and tireless work ethic inspired all who knew him.
Coffin’s services are with Hayes Funeral Home. The service will be Saturday, January 18 inside Community Church at 10 a.m.
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