Clyde Wendell Coker's Obituary
Funeral Service for Rev. Clyde Wendell Coker, 81, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Friday, November 17, 2023 at 11:00 am at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Randy Anderson, Rev. Lewis Miller, Rev. Russell DeLee and Dr. Josh Sammons will officiate. Burial will follow in the Hillview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Thursday, November 16, 2023 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Radney Funeral Home.
Rev. Clyde Wendell Coker, known fondly as "Roll Tide Clyde", was born on December 11, 1941, in Tallapoosa County, AL. He was called home by the Lord on November 14, 2023, leaving a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering faith.
Clyde was a man of God, having earned his bachelor's degree from the Baptist Bible Institute in Graceville, FL. His passion for the Lord led him into a dedicated ministry that spanned over 40 years. Clyde was a hard worker, a trait that was evident not only in his ministry but also in his work at Radney Funeral Home, where he offered compassion and comfort to grieving families for many years.
Clyde was a collector of everything and anything, his home a treasure trove of memories and mementos. He was an Alabama fan, his spirit and enthusiasm for the team infectious and unwavering. But it was his role as a storyteller and jokester that endeared him to many. Clyde had an uncanny ability to spin a tale that would captivate an audience, and his pranks were legendary. His love for Christmas was infectious, making it special for everyone, especially the children. He had a tradition of throwing coins on the floor or hanging tape strips of money from the ceiling, filling the room with squeals of delight and laughter.
Clyde was a true southern gentleman, his character best described as funny, faith-filled, and loving. His sense of humor was infectious, his faith unshakeable, and his love for his family and friends, boundless. He was a beacon of light in the lives of many, his laughter echoing long after he had left the room.
He is survived by his daughters, Angela Hendrix (David) and Cindy Osborn (Brian) and his grandchildren, Brian Hendrix and Leah Osborn. He also leaves behind his sister, Floye Partridge, brother, Marvin Coker (Brenda), and a host of beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his dear wife of 58 years, Shirley Faye Guinn Coker, his parents, Willie Velma and Clifton Jefferson Coker, his siblings, Eloise Coker Wright, Eva Coker Baker, Rueben Coker, and Robert Coker.
The life of Rev. Clyde Wendell Coker was a testament to the power of faith, love, and laughter. He was a southern preacher who lived his faith, a family man who cherished his loved ones, and a friend to all. His life was a sermon of love, his laughter a hymn of joy, and his faith a beacon of hope. He will be dearly missed but his legacy will live on in the hearts and lives of those he touched.
As we bid farewell to Clyde, we do so with the assurance that his spirit lives on. His laughter continues to echo, his stories continue to be told, and his faith continues to inspire. We remember Clyde not with sadness, but with gratitude for the love and joy he brought into our lives. His was a life well-lived, filled with faith, love, and laughter. He was, and always will be, our beloved Clyde.
The family would like to give a special thanks to the staff of Coosa Valley Medical Center and Southern Care New Beacon Hospice for the amazing love, care, compassion and support that was extended to Clyde and the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Alex City Gideon Camp, P.O. Box 117, Alexander City, AL 35011.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the Coker family.
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