Jesse Cole

Jesse Paul Cole, born on May 6, 1939 in Coal City, West Virginia to Paul and Bonnie Cole, passed away peacefully January 19, 2026. Jesse was a devoted and loving husband, father, brother, and grandfather. His greatest pride and joy were his family, and his life was grounded in the deep love he shared with them.

A 1957 graduate of Stoco High School, Jesse worked alongside his father in the coal mines while taking classes in aeronautical engineering at West Virginia University, exemplifying the strong value he placed on education. He dedicated his professional life to the coal mining industry and to the safety and education of miners across the nation. Over the course of his career, Jesse served as a miner, mechanic, electrician, instructor, inspector, and federal leader. He spent 37 years with the U.S. Government, including service with the Bureau of Mines and the Mine Safety and Health Administration, ultimately serving as District Manager. His work was guided by a lifelong commitment to protecting miners’ lives and health.

Jesse married the love of his life, Barbara Ann (Simmons) Cole, on April 15, 1967, and together they shared 57 years of marriage marked by devotion, partnership, and enduring love until Barbara’s passing on August 17, 2024. Jesse was a deeply caring and protective father and is survived by his daughter, Marsha Paulette (Marcie) Cole. Nothing brought him more happiness than being “Papaw” to Marcie's children, his cherished grandchildren, Timothy Cole Hoffman and Bonnie Ann Hoffman, of Louisville, Kentucky. He loved Marcie, Cole and Bonnie fiercely and spoke of them with constant pride.

Jesse is also survived by his sister, Paulette Cole Parker of Vero Beach, Florida, and his brother, Gary Cole of Morgantown, West Virginia. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife, Barbara Ann Cole, and his siblings, Marsha Cole Raines and Timmy Cole.

He will be remembered for his steady presence, his generous heart, and the deep love he held for his family and his work. The family encourages friends and loved ones to remember Jesse in a manner that is meaningful to them, as there will be no formal service.