Dr. J. Earl “Judge” Coker, Jr., age 75 of Malvern, died on Sunday morning, December 15, 2024, at his home. He was born on April 6, 1949, in Bearden, Tennessee, to the late John Earl Coker, Sr. and Nancy Key Coker. Reared and receiving his early education in Bearden, he completed his formal education at Memphis Theological Seminary, earning his Doctor of Ministry degree in 2005. Dr. Coker served as an Ordained Elder in the United Methodist Church from 1998 until his retirement in 2024, his last charge being First United Methodist Church, Malvern. He served in the United States Air Force from 1967 until his Honorable discharge in 1981, retiring with the rank of Captain. Dr. Coker was the husband of Shelia Warfield Coker, to whom he was married on May 30, 1993.
Among his joys in life, he loved his grandchildren and did his best to spoil them. He played the mountain dulcimer (in his words, “badly”), collected fountain pens to refurbish, and amassed boxes of old pocket knives. Dr. Coker was a true Disciple of Christ and led many persons to know the love of God is real and available to all.
He leaves behind his wife, Shelia; two sons, Matthew Coker (Chelsea) of New Hampshire, and Patrick Coker of Tampa, Florida; two stepsons, Tommy Reynolds of Bowling Green, Kentucky, and Timothy Bennett (Tammy) of Alexander, Arkansas; three granddaughters, Hailey, Riley, and Josephine; and two step-grandchildren, Brock and Will.
Dr. Coker was also preceded in death by 10 siblings.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 on Saturday morning, December 21, 2024, in the sanctuary of First United Methodist Church, Malvern, with Reverend Keith Dodson and Dr. Candace Barron officiating and under the direction of J. A. Funk Funeral Home.
Visitation will precede the service by one hour, beginning at 10:00.
Online condolences may be sent via jafunkfuneralhome.com.