Yakura Coffee

Yakura Titus Coffee, 70, of Washington, D.C.

Yakura Titus Coffee, a dedicated air Conditioning and refrigeration mechanic, teacher, and beloved friend, passed away peacefully at his home on September 12, 2025. Known affectionately by family, friends, colleagues as “Big Yak” or just “Coffee,” he leaves behind a legacy defined by his kindness, hard work, and adventurous spirit.

Yakura was born on June 5, 1955, at Freedmen’s Hospital in Washington, D.C., to the late Rose Marie (Harvey) Coffee and John Titus Coffee. From a young age, he developed an aptitude for skilled trades, laying the groundwork for a successful 40-year career for the DC Government in HVAC systems mechanic. His educational achievements include a diploma in HVAC Systems from Lincoln Technical Institute, completion of the Pentagon Heating Plant Training Program, and an EPA Certification in Refrigeration. Yakura was a Master License holder in Air Condition and Refrigeration with the D.C. Government. Later in his career, he passionately moved into education, becoming an Adjunct Faculty member in Refrigeration Technology at the University of the District of Columbia Community College and an NCCER Curriculum Proctor, dedicating himself to training the next generation.

Outside of his significant career, Yakura was a man of diverse interests. He loved training and raising dogs and was obsessed with his 2 dogs Bolo and Butch, was a devoted fan of sports, and enjoyed long walks in the park and adventure activities—always eager for a new experience. He enjoyed driving sports cars while listening to loud Jazz music! Above all, he cherished being around his friends and family.

Yakura is survived by his children: Yakura Dante Coffee, Dane Joseph Coffee,Nicholas Yakura Coffee, and Tiffany Pope. He is also survived by his half-sister, Serita Coffee of California, and by a host of Aunts, Uncles, and cousins. Yakura was married to Coleen Joseph from 1975 to 1984. His loving presence will also be deeply missed and was also enriched by his loving "bonus" family, who mourn his loss: LaGencha Proctor-Thomas, Chanon Davis, Anthony Davis, and Trevon Proctor. He was preceded in death by his “Bonus” partner, Genevieve Ruffin.

A memorial will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 4:00 PM at Arlington National Cemetery, at the columbarium niche of his parents. (Meeting place; Court:5, Section:FF, Column:3,Niche:1)

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Boston St. Fort Funeral and Cremation Services.

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