K.G. Coker

Koma Gene Coker passed peacefully away at home with loved ones by his side on Tuesday, October 29 at the age of 86, leaving a legacy of service, adventure, faith, and love that will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and cherished friend to many. A man of profound faith, K.G. and his beloved wife, Betty, spent countless years involved at Germantown Baptist Church, dedicating their time and energy to the community they held dear. The church held a special place in his life; he served as a deacon, led the security staff for many years, and was well-known for his love of singing, which was one of the many ways he openly expressed his faith. For most of their lives, they were usually present whenever the doors were open. He led an adventurous life filled with purpose and passion. After serving in the Army, he took to the skies as a pilot, later volunteered with the Shelby County Sheriff's Department, and was heavily involved with Memphis Sport Shooting Association (MSSA) in Lakeland, TN. His love for airplanes continued throughout his career in the aviation industry, where he was also part-owner of the iconic Lisa Marie airplane. An adventurer at heart and a man of many hobbies, he spent his younger years racing go-karts and found joy in hunting, NASCAR, collecting and building guns, being a world champion skeet shooter and had a love for technology. Known for his deep affection for animals, he cared for many beloved dogs, as well as some unconventional pets, over the years, who are surely by his side again. In his free time, he could often be found enjoying his favorite foods-catfish, strawberries, ice cream, chocolate pralines, and peach pie. His sense of humor, logical thinking, caring nature, and generous spirit made him a friend to everyone he met. Preceded in death by his parents, Irma and Koma Coker; his brother-in-law, Ronnie; and his son-in-law, Dennis, he leaves behind his loving wife of 63 years, Betty, who honored each other in their solid Christian marriage, exemplifying love and respect throughout their lives together; his daughter, Tammy, the light of his life; grandchildren, Katie and Andy (Sara), who brought joy and energy to his life; and his dog, Max, who was by his side until the end. He was a cherished great-grandfather to two wonderful little boys, William and Marshall, as well as a few four-legged friends who adored him, as all animals did. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to his caretakers, Nora and Tiffany, for their kindness and immense support leading up to and during his final days. Friends and loved ones are warmly invited to join in remembrance. Visitation will be held from 12 to 2 p.m., followed by a service at 2 p.m. on November 1 at Germantown Baptist Church. A graveside service will take place at Memorial Park on Sunday, November 3, at 1 p.m. K.G.'s example of how to live a Christian life and his light will continue to shine in the hearts of those he loved, in the halls of the church he called home, and in the skies he so loved to soar. The family finds comfort in knowing he is now heavenly healed and once again rejoicing and singing with those who went before him.