Merrell Coker

Born June 3, 1930 in Yantis, Texas and died June 2, 2011. After a courageous battle, Merrell passed away peacefully at his home in Sulphur Springs. He wanted everyone to know that his spirit is now released from his physical body with it's limitations caused by COPD. Be comforted and know that he is with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

He was one of seven children born to the late Bud and Odessa Coker of Yantis. He was preceeded in death by 3 brothers and 1 sister. Surviving siblings are Madeline Wilson of Yantis and Joe Coker of Killeen. Merrell was the beloved husband of Joyce Coker for over 60 years and the father of 3 children, 4 grand children and one great grand child.

Melissa J. Aszman and her husband Rick reside in Alpharetta
Georgia; Merrell J. Coker and his wife, Deborah are living in Sulphur Springs, and Rebecca L. Brown and her husband, Randy reside in Colfax, Iowa.

His treasured grandchildren are Mark and Matthew Brown, Dorothy Aszman-Shaffer and Jennifer Aszman and his great-grand daughter is Alyssa Brown.

Merrell will forever be remembered by his devoted and loving family.
Merrell touched the lives of many people with his smile and generosity, and maintained his trademark sense of humor all the way to the end. He served in the US Navy and Air Force for over 22 years of combined service and owned 3 restaurants while living in Austin, Texas. He permanently retired in 1997 to help care for his mother and to be close to his family. Merrell is a member of County Line Baptist and also attended Pond Springs Baptist and North Liberty Baptist churches.

Merrell was very proud that he and his brothers served a total of 100+ years of honorable and unblemished service to this nation.

"Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind,
live in peace and the God of love and peace shall be with you"
2 Corinthians 13:11 (KJV)

Funeral Service will be at Murray-Orwosky Funeral Home
419 Gilmer St. Sulphur Springs, Texas 75482 on Sunday June 5th at 3:00 pm.

Visitation is Saturday June 4th from 6-8pm.
The family requests donations be sent to the Hopkins County Military Coalition, c/o Gene White, 147 Fore St, Sulphur Springs, TX 75482