Clarksville Resident James Henry Coakley, Jr. Passes Away at 83

Coakley leaves behind wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren after 61 years of marriage.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

James Henry Coakley, Jr., an 83-year-old resident of Erin, Tennessee, passed away on February 10, 2026 at his home surrounded by his family. Coakley is survived by his wife of 61 years, Sue Dortch Coakley, as well as his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Coakley's passing marks the end of an era for a long-standing Clarksville-area family with deep roots in the community. His life and legacy will be celebrated by loved ones and the broader community he was a part of.

The details

Coakley entered this life on June 28, 1942 in Houston County, Tennessee, the son of the late James H. Coakley, Sr. and Mildred Clark Coakley. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children Beverly (Danny) Hardin and Dawn (Robbie) McDowell, as well as his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

  • James Henry Coakley, Jr. passed away on February 10, 2026.
  • A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026 at 1:00pm.

The players

James Henry Coakley, Jr.

An 83-year-old resident of Erin, Tennessee who passed away on February 10, 2026.

Sue Dortch Coakley

The wife of James Henry Coakley, Jr. for 61 years.

Beverly (Danny) Hardin

The daughter of James Henry Coakley, Jr.

Dawn (Robbie) McDowell

The daughter of James Henry Coakley, Jr.

Nave Funeral Home

The funeral home handling the arrangements for James Henry Coakley, Jr.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026 at 1:00pm at the Chapel of Nave Funeral Home.

The takeaway

James Henry Coakley, Jr. lived a long and full life, leaving behind a loving family and a lasting legacy in the Clarksville community. His passing marks the end of an era for this well-known local family.