Marvin “Smoky” Coe ended his earthly journey and entered into the presence of God on July 4th, 2018. He was a man of strong faith who believed in the power and resurrection strength of Jesus Christ’s love.
Smoky was born in Cookville, Texas, on December 15th, 1930, to Mark and Mattie Coe. He grew up on a small ranch with his beloved older brother, Willard. He never lost his love for horses and remained a proud Texan for all his years.
He bought his first guitar for $2.50 at the young age of 10. Self-taught and hungry to sing, play and write music, he began performing with the “Jamboree Boys” by the age of 14 at local rodeo, fairs and festivals. The band regularly performed with major artists, including Jim Reeves and Bob Wills. In addition, the band played on a daily live radio program on Station KIMP, in Mount Pleasant, Texas.
The Korean War altered the course of Smoky’s musical career and, like most young men of that time, joined the Army. Shortly after his stint in the service, he moved to North Carolina with his family and married Dolly Jane Smith. Smoky and Jane were married for 25+ years before he lost her to terminal illness way too soon.
Smoky enjoyed a 30-year career with Ford Motor Company and he remained true to the Ford brand for the rest of his life. Throughout his business career, Smoky maintained his love of music, playing with local bands and writing original country and gospel tunes. He had such a passion for music that he established “MARCO Recording”, a sound studio that he operated to record local country and gospel groups. Smoky owned/operated the studio in Gastonia, NC for 35 years. During that time, he became friends with many talented singers, musicians and songwriters, to include Randy Travis. Randy went on to Nashville fame and eventually recorded one of Smoky’s original songs, “Good Intentions”. The album, “Always & Forever”, has sold nearly 10 million copies to date; it remains one of the best selling country albums of all time.
Smoky was a devoted father of three children – Steve Coe (wife, Connie), John Daniel Coe, Lori Flemming (husband, Ned) and doting grandfather to Jane Coe Flemming, the apple of his eye and namesake of his beloved wife. He met the lovely Jan Bryant, who brought him much joy and happiness during his time living on Amelia Island. Smoky was a true and faithful friend to many acquaintances in Texas, North Carolina and Florida.
Smoky was pre-deceased by his parents, his wife (Jane) and brother (Willard).
Smoky was assured of his eternal destination in Heaven. While his family and friends are grieving the loss of him here on Earth, we are comforted in the knowledge that we will be reunited with him one day soon. “What a Day of Rejoicing That Will Be”!
Smoky’s memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 14th at Carothers Funeral Home at Gaston Memorial Park (2205 Williamsburg Drive). The family will receive visitors at 10:00, with the service to follow at 11:00. A private internment will occur at a later date.
Carothers Funeral Home at Gaston Memorial Park is honored to serve the family of Marvin "Smoky" Coe.
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