James Robert Cole

James Robert Cole, age 85, a resident of Jim Arnett Branch in Salyersville, Kentucky passed away Friday, March 14, 2025, at Greg and Noreen Wells Hospice Care Center in Hazard, Kentucky surrounded by family. Robert was born January 29, 1940 in Salyersville, Kentucky the son of the late Newt and Sally Smith Cole. Daughter, Amanda Gipson, an infant son, brothers, Lawrence Cole, Darvin Cole, Larry Cole, EJ Cole, Elmer Cole, Bille Joe Cole, Mike Cole, Homer Cole, Kelly Cole, and sisters, Wavel Baldridge, Madeline Stephens, Zorri Hughes, Mageline Cole, and Ora Perkins preceded him in death. Robert was a loving husband, father, papaw, grandpa, great grandpa, great great grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend. He was born to the late Newt and Sally Smith Cole and was a cherished member of the Salyersville, KY community. Known for his kindness, humor, and unwavering commitment to his family, he leaves behind a legacy of love. Those left to mourn include wife, Karen Cole, and his devoted children: Terry Cole (Sadie) of Salyersville, KY; Randy Cole (Jenny) of Salyersville, KY; Robin McMahan (Shawn) of Jackson, MI; James Craft (Justina) of Pleasant Lake, MI; Joseph (Crystal) Cole of Morrice, MI; Destiny Goble (Jim) of Salyersville, KY; and Jessica Jude (Tommy) of Salyersville, KY. He is also survived by his sister, Lenea Risner of Jackson, MI, and a special nephew and best friend, Tony Cole, along with many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends who loved him dearly. Funeral services for Robert Cole will be conducted Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at 11:00 AM from the Faith Freewill Baptist Church on Old Burning Fork Road in Salyersville, Kentucky. Clergy Daniel Newsome will deliver comforting words on the day of service. The family will welcome friends Sunday, March 16, after 6:00 PM, all day Monday, and anytime Tuesday prior to funeral services at Faith Freewill Baptist Church on Old Burning Fork Road in Salyersville, Kentucky. Arrangements are entrusted to the Salyersville Funeral Home in Salyersville, Kentucky. Online condolences and gifts are available on www.salyersvillefuneralhome.com

James Robert Cole

January 29, 1940 - March 14, 2025