James Howard Coker, age 84, died suddenly Tuesday morning, November 16, at St. John's Hospital. Jim was born on January 11, 1926 in Denver, Colorado. He was an engineer for the Sperry Corporation for over 37 years, working in various locations around the country, and moved to Springfield after his retirement in 1987. A veteran of WWII, he is to be interred at National Cemetery here in Springfield. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Beverly N. Coker, as well as a brother, two daughters, three grandchildren, and a great-granddaughter. He will be greatly missed by both his family and his friends, who loved and admired him for his kindness and character. The family will receive friends on Thursday, November 18th for visitation from 4 to 5 p.m. and a memorial service, at 5 p.m., in Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home, 1947 E. Seminole, Springfield. A family graveside service will be Friday morning, National Cemetery.