Etta Coleman confirmed the noted activist died after suffering a series of seizures while at Louisville's Norton Suburban Hospital, The (Louisville, Ky.) Courier-Journal reported Sunday.

His wife said the loss of her husband was a great blow to the civil rights movement, which Coleman dedicated most of his life to supporting.

"We've lost another great warrior," she said following his death Saturday. "Not only did he stand for Louisville, but for the whole state of Kentucky and for every human being."

Among Coleman's numerous protests included one against a 1996 PGA Championship that widened opportunities for minorities in the sport.

Even those targeted at one time by Coleman's marches and protests recognized his impact on civil rights in the United States.

"Reverend Coleman was a tireless fighter and a voice for those without a voice," Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson said. "We didn't always agree with each other, but I never doubted his dedication and devotion."

The Courier-Journal said in addition to his wife, Coleman is survived by two daughters, a son, a sister and 12 grandchildren.