Saturday, April 27, 2024
Tommy Charles Cole, age 78, passed away peacefully at his home in Kingwood, Texas, on the morning of Monday, October 3, 2022. He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Trisha, and his children, Josh, Beth and Jesse.
Tommy was born to John Dude (J.D.) and Trudie Bell Cole on March 3, 1944, in Gatesville. He graduated from Gatesville High School in 1962 and then from Baylor University with a degree in accounting in 1972. He went on to have a long and successful career in roles as a Controller, CFO, and countless others over the following 40 years.
Tommy loved to fish and while he was quite good at the fishing part, the catching part often eluded him. He also loved ice cream and enjoyed a bowl almost every night. He ate fast. He loved deep. He lived life fully.
Tommy was extremely sociable and would strike up a conversation with anyone, whether they wanted it or not. We’re pretty sure he talked the ears off more than one brick wall. He was also known for his sense of humor. He’d tell you jokes all day and seemed to have an endless number of them, though if you let him talk long enough you were sure to hear them more than once. He was quick-witted, kind, and generous and used his humor as a way to connect with others and put them at ease.
His real passion was people. He loved and supported his family with a ferocity that was second to none, with his love for his friends and their families a close second. He served as a mentor, confidant and role model to countless people throughout his life. He was always willing to make himself available to serve others and that service lives on in the lives of those lucky enough to have known him. He volunteered to coach youth soccer and basketball teams, even doing so long after his own children had quit playing. He was then able to pass on those acts of service to his family by coaching with his children. He was a giver, and we are all the better for the gifts he so freely gave.
His family meant everything to him, and he sacrificed every day of his life to support, love and guide them. He only ever wanted for his kids to be happy; it was important to him. He loved making memories with and for others, and we are blessed to have so many with him.
Dad, TC, Tommy, Tom, Tommy Cole, Tommy Charles... however you knew him he undoubtedly left a positive mark on your life. He will be dearly missed.
Who loves you? You do. Always have... Always will...
The family of Tommy Cole will be holding a small family gathering in his memory.
