Gene Allison Coker

GENE ALLISON COKER entered the Father's house January 6, 2006 after a courageous fight with cancer.  She is survived by her husband of 55 years, the Rev. Dr. Sam H. Coker, two daughters, Carol Hutchinson Bennett, Catherine Sheats Brewer, one son-in-law, Oby Brewer, III; six  granddaughters; Catherine Alvarado, Leigh Jordan, Caroline Dorminy, Gene Allison Sheats, Mary Catherine Sheats, Christy Brewer and grandson, Oby Brewer, IV; one brother, Venable C. Allison, and one great-granddaughter, Anna Catherine Alvarado.  She was preceded in death by her father, The Rev. Robert W. Allison and her mother, Mae Allison; sisters, Myrtle Day and Eloise Powell.   She both supported and enriched her husband's ministry.  On Sunday mornings, she became his "pew evangelist."  She sought out visitors in the worship service, sat with them and got to know them.  After worship, she introduced them to several members and made sure the members got follow-up information.  She helped organize new Sunday School classes.    Her first love was for her family.  Recently, one of her granddaughters said it for all of us:  "Mimi, you are our inspiration!"   She loved unconditionally.  Being the daughter and wife of Methodist ministers, she lived in parsonages until 1995.  Interior design was her special talent and soon the parsonages were transformed into the "Coker's home."  She had profound trust in the Living God of the Bible.  She read the Bible through each year.  Jesus Christ was the source of her strength.  In fact, not only did she read the Bible - - SHE LIVED IT.  Devoted to her family, she gave wisdom and unconditional love.  She cherished her friends and was loyal to them.  Once your life touched hers, you would never be the same.   Funeral services will be held at Oak Grove United Methodist Church, Monday, January 9, 2006, 11:00 A.M., Dr. Larry Bauman and Rev. Dan Brown officiating with Mr. Tony Powell and Rev. David Hancock, Pastor. Visitation shall begin at 10:00 A.M. in the Oak Grove Church parlor.  A. S. Turner & Sons