Gerald Coker

Gerald J L Coker was born in Skirum, AL and lived most of his life in Birmingham, AL. He is survived by his wife of 40 years Margaret Bottoms Coker, Sons Jason, Philip (wife-Paige) and Matthew, grandchildren Parker and Phoebe, his dog Sammy, Sisters Dortha Coker Roberts and Gail Coker Acker and Brother Billy Max Coker. He was preceded in death by his father B C Coker, mother Audra Brumbeloe Coker and brothers Shelton Coker, Clifton Coker and Clovis Coker. Gerald was blessed to have many wonderful sweet nieces, nephews and cousins. Gerald's greatest joy was his children and grandchildren. When his children were young, he enjoying traveling and taking his family on memorable camping trips. In his retirement years he enjoyed restoring old cars, tractors; going on trips with his friends of 37 years, Don and Marie Hooks; and spending the weekend at Smith Lake taking walks with his grandson Parker. In his later years, his main enjoyment came from his precious grandchildren he adored. It was difficult for him to spend more than a couple of days without speaking or spending time with them. He was an active member of McElwain Baptist Church and loved the Lord more than anything. He began each morning talking with God and reading the bible. He was a true inspiration to his faith and those around him. Gerald had an adventurous professional career working with Brown Engineering in Huntsville, AL, Cape Canaveral, FL Fairbanks, AK; City of Birmingham Traffic Engineering; Jefferson County Health Department; Mississippi Power; retiring from Alabama Power in Birmingham, AL. He graduated with degrees from the University of Alabama and the Birmingham School of Law. On Thursday, May 28, 2015 there will be visitation from 9 until 10 and a remembrance service at 10 am with burial following the service at Jefferson Memorial Gardens in Trussville, AL. If you would like to make a donation in lieu of flowers please do so to The American Diabetes Association in Gerald's name.