He obtained an education from the University of Kentucky and Eastern Kentucky University where he studied geology and soil science. He was a registered Professional Geologist in Kentucky and Tennessee and had a nearly 40-year career in land management where he specialized in coal and other natural resources. He was a member of the Green County Historical Society and the William B. Allen Lodge #704. He was known to stand out in a crowd for his dynamic and memorable personality. His generosity and caring heart made him beloved by a host of family and friends. Among his favorite things in this world were his beloved family, children and grandchildren. He was also an avid outdoorsman and loved fishing, hunting, and fellowship with friends. He had made a profession of faith in Christ at an early age while he and his family were members of the Greensburg Baptist Church.

Besides his parents, he was also preceded in death by an infant daughter, Megan Fern Coakley.

A host of other special friends.