My 98 honda civic ex just shut off while I was sitting at a light and won't restart... someone said the ignition coil went out.. is this true?

Very possible. I would replace the Ignition Control Module (ICM) and coil, if the CEL comes on and goes off normally when you turn the ignition switch to ON (Position II):

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-selected-other-vehicles-46563-4.html#post265896

I would also check the fuel pressure, The fuel pump or relay could have gone bad.