Willie Eugene Coaker, known affectionately as Gene, of Saraland, Alabama, passed away
peacefully on April 24, 2024, at Mobile Infirmary Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He
was 88 years old.
Gene lived a full and enriching life. Born on February 28, 1936, he graduated from Fruitdale
High School in 1954. Following graduation, he dedicated 42 years to a successful career at
International Paper Company.
But Gene's true passion was his family. He met the love of his life, Myrtice Stanley, and they
embarked on a beautiful journey together, celebrating 65 years of marriage. Gene is survived by
Myrtice Coaker, their three children, Pam (Ernie) Quinley, Dee Dee (Lynn) Huey and Jayson
Coaker; seven grandchildren, Erin (Nikki) Quinley, Phillip (Christa) Quinley, Dylen Huey,
Madison Huey, Rebekah Huey, Cody Coaker and Landon Coaker; six great grandchildren, Vivi,
Luke, Eli, Logan, Nina and Zach Quinley, and a host of nieces and nephews.
While he enjoyed Alabama football and the Atlanta Braves, Gene's true passion was his family.
He was their biggest fan at ball games, recitals, plays, and gatherings filled with love, laughter,
catfish, and banana pudding. Gene was always his family's biggest supporter.
Later in life, Gene experienced a profound spiritual awakening at Forest Hill Church of God
where he found great comfort and purpose in his faith, introducing him to a life-changing
relationship with Jesus.
Gene's legacy lives on in the hearts of his friends and family. He will be deeply missed, but his
memory will forever be cherished.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Katie Lee Busby; six siblings, Leroy Gilley, Louise Pryor,
Mary Gertrude Griffin, Thomas Deryl Coaker, Devon Busby and Donald Ray Busby.
February 28, 1936 — April 24, 2024
A visitation will be held 9am Saturday April 27,2024 followed by funeral service 10am at Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Mobile Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
