Janie Coker Cheatham 89, of Decatur passed away Tuesday August 25, 2026 at her residence surrounded by her family. She was born August 17, 1937 in Russellville, Alabama to D. Wilbur and Florence Rickard Coker.
She is preceded in death by her parents, a brother Ted Coker, sister, Sarah Peebles and her beloved husband of 56 years, Robert R. “Buck” Cheatham, whom she still thought of and spoke of everyday of her life until her passing.
She is survived by her two daughters, Susan Watson (Mike) and Laura Bishop (Jeff); her favorite and only grandson John Bishop (Brittany) also her great grandchildren Eleanor Bishop and Jameson Bishop and a sister Carolyn Hill.
She was a graduate of Athens Bible School. She was a longtime member of Somerville Road Church of Christ where with her knowledge of the Bible she taught the Womens Bible Study for many years. Mrs. Cheatham was a hairdresser for many years and served on the Alabama State Board of Cosmetology.
The family would like to express a special thanks to Mrs. Elaine and Mrs. May her caregivers.
In lieu of flowers the family suggest memorials to P.A.C.T. Parents and Children Together P.O. Box 1247 Decatur, AL35602
Graveside service will be Friday, August 28, 2026 at 11:00am at Roselawn Cemetery in Decatur with her grandson John Bishop and Mike McLemore officiating.
Berryhill Funeral Home is assisting the family.
