Rev. Edward P Coto

Rev. Edward P. Coto, a beloved minister, devoted family man, and cherished friend, peacefully left this world on September 16, 2026, at his home in Barnwell, SC, surrounded by the love of family and friends. Born on October 22, 1944, in Galveston, TX, Rev. Coto was a man whose life was a testament to his unwavering faith and dedication to serving others. Son of the late Edward P. Coto and Anna Lou Joubert, Rev. Coto's journey of faith began early in life, leading him to an impactful ministry as an ordained minister of the Gospel. Licensed by the United Pentecostal Church International, he devoted over 50 years to preaching, teaching, and living by the Word of God. In 1986, he answered a divine call to move to Barnwell, SC, where he reopened a church that had been closed for three years. For 31 years, Rev. Coto served as Pastor of Life Tabernacle Church, eventually becoming its Bishop in 2017. Rev. Coto's career was diverse, having managed gas stations and worked in the transportation and security industries. Yet, his true calling was as a minister, where he found his greatest joy and purpose. Known for his humility, compassion, and steadfastness, Rev. Coto was a beacon of love and faith, always present and welcoming to those in need. In 1966, he married the love of his life, Madeline Prather, and together they built a life centered around Christ, raising a family grounded in love and faith. Their 58-year union was blessed with four children: Eddie (Dana) Coto, Paul (Amy) Coto, Michael (Penny) Coto, and Timothy (Tiffany) Thomas. He was a proud grandfather to Kevin (Sarabeth) Coto, Heather (Chris) Still, Emily Coto, Nickolas Coto, Gabe Coto, and Nicki Warren, and a cherished great-grandfather to Garrison, Jeremiah, Emberlyn, and Avery Coto, Kalyn, Bryce, and Kyle Still, Jannette, Josie, and Julia Warren, Tyler, and Briana Coto. Rev. Coto was a man of deep faith and warm compassion, known for his clarity, passion, and purpose in preaching the Word. His leadership was marked by a genuine love for his family and congregation, and he was a guiding light to many. A service to celebrate Rev. Coto's life will be held on September 26, 2026, at 4:00 PM at Life Tabernacle Church, 1189 Clinton Street, Barnwell, SC. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Life Tabernacle Church in Barnwell, SC, in honor of Rev. Coto's lifelong dedication to his ministry. The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to Hospice/Pruitt Health and Rev. Coto's caregivers—Marie Wollenberg, RN, Tanner Wilson, RN, Linda Lee, Social Worker, Cynthia Adams, CNA, Shetay Dorch, Caregiver, Debbie Harmon, Caregiver, and Wanda Buggs, Caregiver—for their compassionate care. To those who answered his early morning calls, cooked meals, cleaned his fishtanks, and shared in fellowship, your support is deeply appreciated. Rev. Edward P. Coto's legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. His life was a testament to the power of faith and the enduring impact of a life lived in service to others.