Johnny Albert Coker

Johnny Albert Coker, age 77, of Waco, peacefully passed away on Thursday, May 21, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on June 6, 2026, at Beacon Hill Baptist Church, 1912 Monte Vista Street, Waco, Texas, with Mike Ferus and Reggie Blake officiating.

Johnny was born on January 15, 1949, in Waco, to Albert B. Coker and Mary Belle (Black) Coker. He was a proud graduate of Robinson High School, Class of 1968. He later earned his certificate in Auto Body Repair from Texas State Technical College (formerly TSTI). Johnny worked as a painter for Time Manufacturing in Waco for 11 years. Afterward, he continued doing what he loved by helping at a local auto body shop and painting houses alongside two of his close friends until his retirement.

On January 8, 1989, Johnny married the love of his life, Diane. Together, they shared a love for the outdoors and enjoyed camping and fishing at many state parks throughout Texas. Johnny was talented in leatherworking and crafted many belts and leather items for his family. He deeply loved his grandchildren and treasured every moment spent with them. He had a special bond with his brother Bill and was always happy when they were able to talk or get together.

In his later years, Johnny developed a passion for researching his ancestry and family tree. Through his research, he connected with several distant cousins, and he and Diane enjoyed traveling to Comanche each year for a family reunion. Johnny was known for his sense of humor and loved making others laugh. He was a faithful member of Beacon Hill Baptist Church for 27 years, where he enjoyed serving as an usher and formed many dear friendships.

Johnny also had a special love for cats and is now reunited with his beloved cat, Nickel, whom he dearly missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert B. Coker and Mary Belle Coker; his grandparents, Noel D. King and Rosa L. King; and his sister, Jimmie Sauer.

Johnny is survived by his loving wife, Diane Coker; his brother, Bill Coker and wife Wanda; his daughter, Angel Boehme and husband Corey; his sons, Rick Gossett Jr. and wife Lindsey, and William Hobby and wife Shirley; his grandchildren, Lane Boehme, Aybrie Boehme, Rick Gossett III, Daniel Gossett, Autumn Gossett, and Grant Gossett; his great-granddaughter, Maddy Gossett; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.