Coker, Rita

Whitesburg Baptist Church, Huntsville
Madison Baptist Association

Favorite Bible Verse: Matthew 11:28–30
Favorite Hymn: “At Calvary”
Hobbies: Writing, painting, teaching and encouraging people
Family Status: Married to Laddie for 56 years; one daughter, Debbie; and two grandchildren (one deceased)

Rita Coker has spent more than 40 years serving God through leading Bible studies for women. She has also written three books, including “Hammered Gold,” which tells the story of how God took her family through the tragedy of a car accident that killed her 3-year-old granddaughter and critically injured her daughter.

Q: How did you come to know the Lord?
A: We were living in Mobile when I was 30 years old. Depression became very heavy and medication didn’t help. I found a pamphlet that had Matthew 11:28–30, read it and wondered if Jesus could really give me rest.

Not knowing how to pray, I just said, “If you really mean this, I give you all that I am. Tell me what to do, and I will do it for the rest of my life.” The depression left and love and joy filled my soul. 

Q: How have you been involved in church through the years?
A: We joined Cottage Hill Baptist, Mobile, and went through a leadership training class soon after. I was given my first young married women’s class and the rest is history. Three years later, we moved to Huntsville and joined Whitesburg Baptist Church. … I have taught different ages in Sunday School for 43 years and a ladies Bible study for 42 years at Whitesburg.

Q: What have you gotten from those ministries?
A: Each privilege I have had to study and teach God’s Word has been an absolute joy.

I have had the privilege of seeing many souls saved and many people learn the joy of growing and serving the Lord using their special gifts. What could be better than that?

Q: What have been some of the demands of the ministries?
A: Diligence in study, reaching each individual with love and encouragement. I just don’t look at this ministry as having demands. It’s just such a joy to have been given the privilege of sharing.