George Coefer; Sept. 22, 2010

U.S. Army Retired Sgt. Maj. George Collier Coefer, of Madison passed away Wednesday, Sept. 22 in Huntsville.

He was born Feb. 3, 1931, in Elizabethton, Tenn. He served his country for 30 years, surviving tours of duty in the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and being stationed overseas four times, but lost his battle with cancer.

Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Margaret; daughters, Patricia Tatum and husband Dan, Barbara Biles and husband Tommy, Sandra Smith and husband Randall and Marcia Sparks; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and six step-great-grandchildren.

Visitation began at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 25 at Madison Chapel Funeral Home. Services followed at 11 a.m. with military honors. Pastor Jimmy Lancaster officiated. Private interment was held by his family. Honorary pallbearers were  Patricia, Barbara, Sandra, Marcia, Dan Sparks and Amanda Upton.

The family extends a special thanks to Dr. Leroy Harris, his family and staff.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Skyline Baptist Church Missionary Fund, P.O. Box 2, Madison, AL 35758.

Online condolences may be made at madisonchapel-funeralhome.com.