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Stephen P. Coker. Sr.
January 5, 1942-
June 14, 2017
Stephen Pierre Coker Sr. was
born January 5, 1942 in Decatur, Illinois. He was nurtured
and lovingly reared by his parents, George Coker, and
Minerva Sweet. He was united in holy matrimony for 41 years
to Patricia Ann (White) Coker and was a loving husband and
father to their five children. Stephen departed this life
surrounded by his loving family and friends on Wednesday,
June 14, 2017.
Stephen attende Edward
Drummond Libbey High School where he met his wife. Though
celebrated for his world class boxing abilities, Stephen’s
employment career largely began in 1982 as a drug case
manager at three different locations: Toledo Hospital,
Substance Abuse Services, Inc., and the Drug Abuse Outreach
Program. Through the SASI Program he met, then City Council
president and future mayor of Toledo, the late Jack Ford.
Ford was quoted in a 1994 article written about Stephen’s
contributions to the community by saying, “He is one of
those rare guys who reaches a point where his greatest joy
is doing things on behalf of the community.” His work helped
people from all walks of life throughout the years by
warning them of the dangers of drug addiction.
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Stephen Pierre
Coker Sr.
January 5, 1942-
June 14, 2017 |
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Stephen was no stranger to the
challenges that life can bring, sometimes taking for granted
God’s blessings. Those challenges proved as much 15 years
ago when Patricia, the love of his life, passed away.
Stephen Pierre Coker, an already good man, became an even
greater man. He was a role model for the community, his
family, especially his children, grandchildren, and great
grandchildren. Showing them how to lead and take pride in
their accomplishments, even if they stumble along the way.
The way he carried himself at all times to be that example
in the community has solidified him as a living legend.
He leaves to cherish his loving
memory two sons, and three beautiful daughters. As well as a
host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, brothers,
sisters, and more family and friends alike, he will truly be
missed.
Visitation was held Saturday,
June 24, 2017 at 10:00 AM followed by the funeral at 11:00
AM at Glenwood Lutheran Church located at 2545 Monroe St.
Toledo, OH 43620. Arrangements were provided by Dale-Riggs
Funeral Home www.dalefh.com
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