James Lorenza Coker’s faith became sight on May 13, 2023. Surrounded by family, he passed from this life into the presence of his Lord and Savior.

He was born on February 2, 1941 in Frisco, TX. to the late Marshall Eric Coker and Francis Ruth Tittle Coker.

James served in the Vietnam war and excelled in his military service. Upon his return from Vietnam, he became a CID Agent for the United States Army. He served his country with great pride. After leaving the military, he worked as as corporate security director for several years until the day God called him into ministry. He attended Criswell Bible College in Dallas and Central Baptist College in Conway. He counted all his accomplishments in life as loss for the knowledge of Christ. For nearly 50 years he preached Christ and Him crucified and lived his life to the glory of God.

James married Louise Tidwell Coker on December 18, 1965 in Waxahachie, TX. They enjoyed almost 58 years of marriage. In 1978, God answered year of prayers and blessed them with a daughter, Tracy. Of all the titles he held, husband and father were his most prized. Never will there be a better husband or father. He was the epitome of unconditional love and grace.

James was blessed with three grandsons Brantley, Buzz, and Gavin. The boys were his pride and joy. He loved them and made sure they were taken care of everyday.

James moved to Pocahontas in 1984 to begin a mission, which became Pocahontas Missionary Baptist Church. He pastored there for 25 years until his health declined. He continued to serve as Pastor Emeritus until his death.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Marshall Eric Coker and Francis Ruth Tittle Coker; and sister, Marlene Coker.

He is survived by his wife, Louise Coker; daughter, Tracy (Randy) Gholson; grandchildren, Brantley, Buzz, and Gavin Gholson; brother, Larry (Lynn) Coker; as well as a sister in law, nephews, nieces, and cousins. He is also survived by his son in faith, Randy Lingenfelter.

Visitation will be held Thursday, May 18, 2023 from 6-8 PM in the Chapel of McNabb Funeral Home. Funeral service will be Friday, May 19, 2023 at 10 AM at the Pocahontas Missionary Baptist Church with Randy Lingenfelter officiating. Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are, Randy Gholson, Brantley Gholson, Buzz Gholson, Dallas Johnson, Jeb Sullivan, and Keith Waymon.

Honored to serve as honorary pallbearer will be Gavin Gholson.