Gracie Coker

Gracie Coker, a beloved matriarch and a cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2025, just days before her 90th birthday. Born on February 5, 1935, Gracie was a woman of faith, family values, and an outgoing spirit that endeared her to all who knew her.

Gracie's education began at Hot Springs High School, setting the groundwork for her industrious career. She worked as a cashier at Safeway and also dedicated time to the production line at National Rejectors.

A proud member of Centerfork Baptist Church and the Centerfork Baptist Church Joy Class, Gracie's faith was a central tenet of her life. She attended Sunday services both morning and evening, illustrating her devotion to her beliefs and the community she held dear. Her relationship with God was evident in her daily Bible readings and in the way she cared for others, embodying the qualities of a godly woman. Her interests were wide-ranging; Gracie found joy in playing dominoes, sewing, crossword puzzles, cooking, knitting, and crocheting. She cherished drives in the country, traveling, and enjoying picnics with her family. Gracie had a particularly fondness for game shows, often seen laughing and cheering along with Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune.

Gracie was known for her love of family, which was evident in everything she did. She is survived by her loving children, Linda Ferrell, Kathy Boyette (Doug), Clifford M. Coker Jr. (Cathy) and, Sharon Merriweather (Jerry). Gracie took great joy in her role as a grandmother, leaving behind ten grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren, each of whom carries forward her legacy of warmth and love.

Gracie's memory will be lovingly preserved by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Willie and Mary Neal, loving husband, Clifford M. Coker Sr.; her sisters, Ida Bell Lingelbach, and Willie Fae Hampton; as well as her son-in-law, Larry Ferrell.

As we remember Gracie Coker, we celebrate a life beautifully lived—a life marked by love for her family, a steadfast faith, and a generosity of spirit that touched all who encountered her. She will be dearly missed but forever cherished in the hearts of her family and friends.