Leon J. Coker, age 91, of Arcadia, FL. passed away Saturday June 9, 2012 at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born May 12, 1921 in Lily, FL and a lifetime resident of Arcadia. He was of the Baptist faith. Leon was a custom cabinet maker and worked many years for Christ Building and Supply Co. Leon joined the Army National Guard of Florida in 1939. While assigned for training at Ft. Benning, GA, his superiors recognized that he was an excellent marksman with the standard issue rifle. He was subsequently kept at Ft. Benning and assigned as a rifle instructor for many incoming recruit classes. Leon served our Country in the United States Army and did several tours in Europe during WW II where he was wounded twice. He received numerous medals to include two Purple Hearts with Oak Leaf, Crois De Guerre, American Defense Service Medal, EAMETO Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Distinguished Unit Badge GO 53, and Bronze Star Medal. He was Honorably Discharged as Staff Sergeant. Leon loved his family, life, the outdoors; enjoyed hunting with friends and son Steve in the Everglades and in surrounding countryside of Arcadia, fishing, camping, gardening, bird watching and telling tall tales! He was a member of the Peace River VFW Post 2824 and Elks Lodge # 1524. Leon was loved and adored by his family and friends and will be greatly missed by all. He is survived by one son, Steve D. (Terri) Coker of Dorr, MI, two daughters, Lorelei C. Jackson of Arcadia, FL. Leah M. (Rodney) Overman of Longview, TX, son in law David Noel of Indianola, Iowa, brother Carl Coker of Wauchula, FL., sisters Vida Mae McGrady of Davenport, FL, Willie Redman of Plant City, FL.; thirteen grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Opal Vick Coker, daughter Shelia Coker Noel, and parents Wesley M. and Tonnie E. Coker. A visitation will be held Wednesday, June 13, 2012 from 10:00AM until 11:00AM at the chapel of Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes, 50 N. Hillsborough Ave., Arcadia. Funeral Services will follow the visitation at 11:00AM at the chapel with Rev. Ellis Cross officiating. Burial will be at Lily Cemetery with the U.S. Army Honor Guard presenting the colors. Online condolences can be made at pongerkaysgrady.com Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes are in charge of the arrangements.