Shirley Ann Besecker Coen, age 79, of Johnson City, passed away on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Holston Valley Medical Center. She was born on May 21, 1947, the daughter of the late Donald and Wanda Gerber Besecker. Shirley loved traveling with her husband, John, and with her family. She loved and treasured precious memories of many out West camping trips and vacations to Hilton Head Island and Clearwater, Florida. She loved homemaking, decorating, and hospitality, adding special touches to every family gathering. She loved people and conversation. She had boundless energy and was always ready for an adventure or to tackle any project. She was the perfect helpmate to her husband of 58 years. They were a team and did everything together. But most of all, she loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She lived a faithful, God-fearing life that will leave a legacy for her family and friends for generations to come.
Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her mother-in-law, Ella Belle Coen; father-in-law, Don Coen; brother-in-law, Jim Coen; and granddaughter, Sydnee Coen.
Those left to cherish her memory, along with her husband, John Coen; include her children, Scott Coen (Kristi) and Shelley Amburgey (Steven); grandchildren Kerri Coen, Noah Coen, Troy Amburgey (Lilley), Anna Amburgey, and Austin Amburgey; brothers Donald Besecker, Jr. (Laura) and Gary Besecker (Lisa); sister-in-law Claire Alvis; along with many other family and friends that loved her dearly.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, from 5:30 pm till 6:45 pm at East Lawn Funeral Home. The service will follow in the Chapel at 7:00 pm with Pastor Dwayne Dillard officiating. A graveside committal service will be held at 12:00 noon on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at East Lawn Memorial Park. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Troy Amburgey, Austin Amburgey, and Noah Coen.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Jamal Maatouk and her incredible team for the unwavering love, exceptional care, and steadfast support. Additionally, we would like to express our sincere appreciation to Dr. Scott Coen and his dedicated staff at Holston Valley Radiation Oncology. Your professionalism and kindness have been a source of comfort to us during this time. We feel truly blessed to have had each and every one of you by our side.
