Jacquelyn Lavender Coke

Jacquelyn Lavender Coke, affectionately known as "Jackie," passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, surrounded by her loving family. Born on July 6, 1937, in Nashville, Tennessee, she lived a life marked by dedication, love, and community.

Jackie's career began at the Federal Reserve Bank, but in 1969 she transitioned to Vanderbilt University, where she devoted 25 years to her work. This chapter of her life underscored her commitment to education and development, and she proudly became a lifetime member of the College Placement, as well as active in the Southeastern and Tennessee Associations of Colleges and Employers.

She was a graduate of West High School, completing her education in 1955, and continued to carry the values instilled in her through her schooling throughout her life. Her strong connections to her faith were evident in her church memberships; while living in Nashville, she was a member of the Hillsboro Church of Christ, and after moving to Murfreesboro, she became part of the Kingwood Church of Christ community.

Jackie was known for her vibrant personality and her love of life. She was an active member of a card playing group known as the Silver Queens, where she enjoyed many afternoons of laughter and friendship. Her love for nature found her gardening and fishing at her cherished place on the Tennessee River, affectionately referred to as "the lake." In her quieter moments, she found joy in reading and working on puzzles. An avid doll collector, Jackie also had a deep affection for her feline companions, Spuffy, Abby, and Myrtle.

Jackie is survived by her son, Thomas Hartwell "Tommy" (Nancy) Coke Jr., and her daughter, Joy Coke (Jeff) McClain. She leaves behind a legacy of love in her grandchildren: Rachel (Jeremey) Sullivan, Thomas Hartwell "Trey" (Jasmine) Coke III, Christi (Zac) Yanis, Clay (Brooke) McClain, Connor (Evelyn) McClain, and Darrell (Jenny) Holt, as well as Daniel (Katie) Holt and Thomas Holt. Additionally, she cherished her role as a grandmother of 19 great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Hardy Winfield and Jessie Lee Lavender; her devoted husband of 59 years, Thomas Hartwell "Tommy" Coke Sr.; her brother, Hardy Jack Lavender; and her sister, Frances Binkley.

A visitation to honor Jackie's life will be held on November 29, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Williamson Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Franklin, Tennessee. A funeral service will follow on November 30, 2025, at 11:00 AM, also at the Williamson Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, with burial to take place shortly thereafter at 1:30 PM in New Johnsonville, Tennessee.

Jackie's memory will forever remain alive in the hearts of those she touched with her kindness, laughter, and unwavering spirit. As we remember her life, we celebrate the profound impact she had on her family, friends, and community.