Laura Markham Cole

Laura Markham Cole, 73, graduated from this life on June 27, 2025, in Columbia, South Carolina. Born on July 11, 1951, in Charlotte, North Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Episcopal Bishop Clarence Alfred Cole and Catharine Powe Cole.

Laura's life was grounded in a deep commitment to community. She began her academic journey at Heathwood Hall and A.C. Flora High School before continuing her studies at Piedmont Community College in Charlotte. Her pursuit of knowledge reflected a lifelong dedication to personal growth and the empowerment of others.

Laura received a community award for her work in a Baton Rouge, LA Women's Shelter. She also supported her mother, Catharine P. Cole with her work at Columbia's YWCA and Haiti ministries. Laura worked as a ropes course instructor at The Bishop Gravatt Camp and Conference Center for many years. She worked at camp during the summers and was loved by all. She also led community groups, teen recovery groups, leadership communities and others at the Conference Center. That feeling of success when you complete the ropes course stays with you forever.

Laura volunteered as the Senior High Youth Coordinator for the Diocese of Upper South Carolina. She planned and led many Youth Events across the diocese that are still remembered by the many young people and adults who worked with her. We still have the T Shirts!

Laura served as a Guardian for her "little brother" Joe Murray for many years. She was a wonderful friend, role model and neighbor. She also loved all of her pawed friends.

Throughout her life, Laura was known for her unwavering support of those around her. Whether through quiet encouragement or active involvement, she consistently uplifted others and helped them realize their potential. Her presence left a lasting impact on many lives.

She is lovingly remembered by her sister Catharine P. Cole of Vermont, her sister-in-law Mary Cole and her nieces and nephews: Catharine Cole Robertson, Cassandra Cole Cooner, Tom Cole, Clay Cole, Peter Cole, and Andrew Cole. She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers Carl, Ellerbe, and Al; and her sister Elizabeth Cole.

A funeral service celebrating Laura's life will be held on September 5, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, 1100 Sumter Street, Columbia, South Carolina. The committal will be in the churchyard followed by a reception in Satterlee Hall.

May Laura's memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.