Shirley Kaye Coker passed peacefully surrounded by her family on January 6, 2024, in Lexington, Oklahoma at the age of 74 years 2 months 29 days. Funeral services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday, January 12, 2024, at the Wadley’s Funeral Chapel. Interment will follow at Lexington Cemetery, entrusted to the care of Wadley’s Funeral Service.
Shirley was born on October 8, 1949, in Purcell, Oklahoma, to loving parents Jimmie and Wanda Louise (Franks) Jones. She began her education at Washington Elementary and continued at Foster Elementary and then Southeast High School. Ultimately, Shirley completed her schooling at Capitol Hill.
On June 4, 1966, Shirley entered into marital bliss with Earnest Coker Jr., a union that blessed them with three daughters and a son.
During her professional career, Shirley contributed 32 years as a System Tester for Western Electric, which in time became AT&T, before embracing retirement. Her compassionate nature led her to work in home health care as well as becoming a devoted caregiver for her beloved parents.
Her spiritual journey began at Ridgecrest Baptist Church before eventually joining 40th Street Baptist Church. Ultimately, she found solace and community as a devoted member of Corbett Baptist Church. Shirley even embarked on a missionary trip to Mexico that allowed her faith to flourish.
Deeply committed to her faith and driven by an unwavering desire to serve others, Shirley found immense joy in various ministries. She taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School for several years. Her voice soared as she sang soprano, a gift that enriched both the AT&T choir and her church choir. She also brightened the lives of countless individuals through her endearing portrayal of “Happy” the clown during visits to nursing homes and children’s hospitals.
Shirley continuously sought opportunities to support those around her. She always donated blood and plasma and giving generously to the United Way. She also sponsored children through Children’s International. Shirley also possessed creative talents which she expressed through crocheting and cross-stitching. She created many beautiful Afghan blankets for her children and grandchildren.
Above all else, Shirley cherished the time spent with her adored family. They brought immeasurable joy to her life, and their love was reciprocated wholeheartedly.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Jimmie and Wanda Jones; her son, Ernie Z. Coker III; her sister, Diana Pearl Sharratt; and her grandson, Brandon J. Williams.
Survivors include her husband, Ernie Coker Jr; her daughter, Chrystal Lippe and husband, Dean; her daughter, Shirlene Coker-Adams; her daughter Tina L. Coker-Boyd; her grandchildren, Cassidy Kay Lippe, Cadence Mae Lippe, Derrick Lippe, Dillon Lippe, Shelby Adams, Madeline Adams, Brandon Boyd, Blake Boyd, Bradly Coker, Christian Galegor and husband, Austin, Chloe Coker and Rylee Coker; her brother, Jimmie Jones and wife, Karen; her sister, Teresa Poe and husband, Larry; her brother-in-law, Paul Sharratt; and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.
