"The guy at Edward Jones was adamant that it was NOT taxable because the client has been putting in the required $6500 per year since 2009 and he was "just taking it out." "

Well, obviously, that person doesn't know anything about the rules. If he did, he would state it Properly, not so generically. It's hard to state if he means reference to the ordering rules, the 5 year rule, both? Sheesh.

"I can't find anything regarding Code J and it not being used for a First Time Home Buyer situation. He actually used the funds for a new truck and was delighted with the purchase. Now he is not delighted with the Tax hit! Am I missing something here?"

I like the articles meant for the Taxpayer, wince they are not tax-geek-speak. Try this one.

https://www.investopedia.com/understanding-non-qualified-roth-ira-distributions-4770842

Then write it up, send it to the ED Jones guy, and mention you welcome referrals.