Paul H. Coker

Paul H. Coker, 88, of Kingsport, graduated from the college of life, on Thursday, January 14, 2010. Born in Knox County, TN, he attended Karns High School and served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II and the Korean War. Paul was employed at Mead Corporation for 35 years, retiring in 1984.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Frances Smith Coker; mother, Willie Kate Coker; a granddaughter, Amanda Coker; and his second wife Olivene McCray Coker.

Paul is survived by his two sons Rodney Coker and wife Judi of Silver Cliff, CO, and Jeffrey Coker and wife Carla of Knoxville; two grandsons, Beau Coker of St. Louis, MO, and Chris Coker of Rapid City, SD; and a brother, Ken Coker of Mayfield, KY.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, January 23, 2010, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Glen Alpine United Methodist Church. A funeral service will also be conducted at the church at 1:30 p.m. with Dr. Kenneth W. LaDuke officiating.

Burial will follow in Oak Hill Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Joe Riggs, Nathan Morrell, Allen Zollman, Scott Castleberry, Ned Morrell, and Brian Trent. Neal Morrell and the youth of the mid-70s and the present youth of Glen Alpine United Methodist Church will serve as honorary pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial gifts be made to Glen Alpine United Methodist Church; 3200 Glen Alpine Road; Kingsport, TN 37660 or to the organization of one's choice.