Billy Gene Coker, 89, of Perryville, passed away peacefully in his home on August 11, surrounded by the life and love he built over nearly nine decades. 

Born in Conway, Billy was the son of Alvis Coker and Amy Gunter (née Heffington). He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Bobby Coker, James Mahan, Larry Mahan, and Sandy Coker; and sisters, Alva Dean Coker, Carolyn Nagel, and Linda Coker. 

Billy was the beloved partner of Debbie Tate for 36 years and a devoted father to Caryn Burge and her husband, Jason, and Danny Coker and his wife, Tonya. He was a proud grandfather to Sara Coker, Jenna Coker, Jayme Denker, and Kaila Collins, and a loving great-grandfather to Reed Collins. 

Billy loved his family deeply and found joy in the simple things in life. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing, spending time with the people he loved, and, of course, tossing back a few “cold ones.” 

Those who knew Billy will remember the life he lived, the stories he shared, and the love he had for his family. After 89 years, he leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will continue to be told, laughed about, and cherished by those who loved him most. 

He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Visitation will be 1:30 to 2:00 p.m. Friday, August 14 at Ashby Funeral Home with his Celebration of Life to begin at 2:00 p.m.