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John Coker Obituary
A native of South Bend, Indiana, Mr. Coker was the son of the late Curtis and Mildred Collier Coker. He was an MBA graduate from Indiana University who became a CPA. Over five decades he worked for firms in Indianapolis, San Francisco, and Miami, ran a private practice in Blairsville, Georgia, and served for three years as comptroller for Young Harris College.
An accomplished jazz pianist, Mr. Coker played professionally for more than sixty years, performing in small jazz groups and big bands, and accompanying various vocalists. In Indianapolis he performed with famed jazz musicians Wes Montgomery and Slide Hampton. He later played shows for such entertainers as Sammy Davis Jr., Red Skelton, Vicki Carr, and the Modernaires, and he performed in concert with the bands of Woody Herman, Nelson Riddle, and Tex Beneke. He played twice during the 1960s at the Concord Jazz Festival and in the 1990s taught jazz piano and theory at the University of North Carolina at Asheville.
A longtime Quaker, Mr. Coker was a member of the Athens Friends Meeting. During the Korean War he served as a corporal in the accounting and budget division of the Tokyo Quartermaster Depot.
Mr. Coker is survived by his wife, Barbara Jean Winters Coker; his daughter, Karen Lee Coker and devoted friend, Paul W. Early; his son, Jerry Alan Coker and wife, Teresa Schretter Coker; his granddaughter, Sarah Jean Coker; his grandson, Suny Daniel Coker Lyons and wife, Amanda Crouse Lyons; and three great-grandchildren. Mr. Coker is also survived by his brother, jazz educator and author, Jerry Coker and wife, Patty Coker; and nephew, Curt Coker and his wife, Susan Draeger Coker, all of Cleveland, Ohio.
A memorial service will be planned for some time later this year. No flowers, please.
Online condolences may be offered at www.bernsteinfuneralhome.com.
Bernstein Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements. 1929 - 2016
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Coker
Clay Phillips Band - fall of 1950
David Johnson
September 22, 2016
Clay Phillips Band - fall of 1950
David Johnson
September 22, 2016
Sorry to hear about Jack's passing. I have some old photos that belonged to my father, Don Johnson, who played trumpet in Clay Phillips Band and Al Cobine's Band along with Jack. I'll post a few more later.
Christopher Chandek-Peace
August 31, 2016
I was just telling a friend this morning about studying jazz theory and improve with Jack at UNC-Asheville ('88-'89), and about his gentle nature and wonderful stories about his career. Then I saw this obituary and memorial online. I recall him as a model musician and a humble, joyful man who I will never forget for these qualities. Please accept my late-arriving condolences.
June 21, 2016
MY GOD's Loving Kindness comfort you and help you through this sad times Psalms 29:11
Deb Weiler
June 20, 2016
I am sorry to learn of Jack's death. A fond hello to Bobbie and condolences.
Jean Gowen
June 19, 2016
I always appreciated your presence in Meeting. May you rest in the Light of God's Love.
Aaron Joslin
June 19, 2016
Thank you for sharing your Light with the Athens Quaker Meeting. Your presence always made me feel welcome. Peaceful blessings on your journey.
Janice Pulliam
June 19, 2016
I remember Jack's gentle Quaker wisdom and how he faced difficulties with good humor. I am holding Bobbie and the rest of his family in the Light of God's love for peace and healing and fond memories. I live in Arizona now but am happy that I knew Jack when I lived in Athens, GA. With love,
Stuart Reinhardt
June 18, 2016
I am so saddened to hear about Jack's passing. He was always a mentor and friend to me, and I had the honor and privilege of playing music with him many times. He was a great person and extraordinary musician!! My condolences to all of his family and friends.
June 18, 2016
May the family have peace and comfort during this time. Psalm 9:9
Bernstein Funeral Home
June 18, 2016
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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Bernstein Funeral Home and Cremation Services3195 Atlanta Highway, Athens, GA 30606
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