James Albert ‘Jimmy’ Coker

James Albert “Jimmy” Coker, age 60, a resident of Oliver Springs, passed away Thursday, Aug. 23, at Roane Medical Center.

Jimmy was born Dec. 26, 1951, in Roane County.

While in high school, Jimmy worked at his dad’s service station, Coker’s Shell in Oliver Springs.

At the age of 14, he purchased his first Ford Mustang. He was often seen driving around Oliver Springs in his shinny Mustang, a hobby that he continued to enjoy throughout his life. He also enjoyed Nascar and relaxing at the lake with friends.

Following his high school graduation in 1969, he entered into the mechanical apprenticeship program at the Tennessee Valley Authority. He continued his employment with TVA for 35 years, working in several states. He served as a mechanical supervisor in the heavy equipment division, receiving several awards for his service including the TVA Presidential Outstanding Achievement Award.

He was a faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church in Oak Ridge, where he enjoyed the fellowship of his Sunday school class.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James L. Coker and Wanda P. “Madge” Coker, and by a brother, James L. Coker Jr.

He is survived by his wife, Pat King Coker of Oliver Springs; by a son, Jason Coker of Loudon; by grandchildren, Joseph and Jessica Coker; by a step-daughter, Jill Robbins of Oak Ridge; by a step-granddaughter, Baylee Payne; and by a brother, Douglas E. Coker and wife Kim of Mobil, Ala.

Jimmy is also survived by a special friend and brother-in-law, Gary Calvert, by his co-workers who were considered as family, and many special friends and extended family members.

The family received friends Sunday, Aug. 26, between 1 and 3 p.m. at Sharp Funeral Home. Funeral services followed at 3 p.m., in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Steve McDonald officiating.

Burial followed at Anderson Memorial Gardens.

Sharp Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements. An online guest book is available at www.sharpfh.com.