Harry Coker

(From Carson-Wall Funeral Home)

Harry Coker Sr., age 87, of Parsons, passed away at The Healthcare Resort of Olathe on July 2, 2020, following a lengthy period of failing health. 

He was born November 2, 1932 in Parsons, KS to Lonnie and Pearl (Brown) Coker. Mr. Coker grew up and attended schools in Parsons before joining the U.S. Navy in 1951. He served in the Navy for 21 years and spent most of his career in the submarine fleet. 

After retirement from the Navy Mr. Coker returned to Parsons with his wife, the late Lois Charlene Robinson Coker, and family. He attended Pittsburg State University where he earned Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Education. He taught gifted children at Guthridge Elementary School and also served on the USD 503 Board of Education where he was a vocal proponent of academic excellence. 

Harry Coker was a founding member of SEK Housing Development Inc. in 1980, and served as president of the board for 40 years. The non-profit corporation built Plaza Place at 2000 Katy Drive to serve elderly Parsons residents. 

Mr. Coker was preceded in death by his parents, brother David Brannon, sister, Virginia Coker Stewart, and brother Lonnie Coker. 

He is survived by his children Linda (Maurice) Tiggs of Lawrence, Joyce Coker (Moussa Kaba) of Orange, NJ, Tina (Mike) Coker-Monroe of Olathe, Donald Coker of Oceanside, CA, Harry (Kendra)

Coker Jr. of Clinton, MD, Leslie Aubert of Los Angeles, CA, Lori Coker of Parsons, Anthony (Michelle) Coker of Oakland, CA, Jason (Hideko) Coker of San Diego, CA, and Jaime (Trisha Sanders) Coker of Waite Park, MN; grandchildren Jacynth Coker, Ryan and Logan Aubert, Amani Coker-Warren, Ayana Coker, Ahmad (Tierra) Kaba, Airi and Ayane Coker, and Marlena Coker. Also remaining to cherish his memory are nine great-grandchildren, nieces Paula and Kishna Saterfield of San Leandro, CA, and a cousin, Mrs. Lettie McMillan of Joplin. 

The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to needy families and elders in Parsons via organizations of choice. A private graveside service will be held in Oakwood Cemetery.