Beverly Nelson Coker, 90, of Springfield, passed away Wednesday morning, March 1, 2017. She was born on May 31, 1926 in Memphis, Tennessee to Andrew and Rose Nelson.

One wonderful day after her high school graduation she met a young veteran named James Coker. The connection was instant and eternal. Jim invited Bev to join him on their adventurous journey that would last a lifetime. They married on Dec. 31, 1945 and moved to Denver, CO where they started their life together. During the 64 years of marriage they travelled the country, raised two daughters, and finally retired to Southern Hills in 1989. Bev taught Sunday School at King's Way UMC, volunteered at the local branch of the library, and was a tireless volunteer with the Springfield chapter of Newborns in Need.

Her beloved Jim passed away in 2010. Bev is survived by two daughters; Kate Coker of Springfield and Meg and Allan Henderson of Marietta, GA; three grandchildren, Colin and Jessica Henderson of Marietta, GA, Emily and Neil Konouchi of Nashville, TN, and Blake and Emily Henderson of Reno, NV; and two great-granddaughters, Mia Henderson and Margot Henderson of Marietta, GA.

Memorial contributions may be made to Newborns in Need to continue its important work, which is what Bev would love to be remembered by.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 9, 2017 at 5:00 pm at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm until the time of service. Burial will be at National Cemetery at a later date.