Billie Ray Cole

Bill “Big Bill” was born in Springfield, IL on December 16, 1952, the son of Raymond and Norma “June” Cole. He married Christina R. Koch on July 1, 1977 in Springfield.

Bill graduated in 1972 from Southeast High School. He was employed by SASCO and later as a mechanic for First Student, working in both the Springfield and Havana Depots, until his retirement. Bill loved animals and he even bred boxers for a time. He was an active church member, attending St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Petersburg and Holy Family Catholic Church in Athens.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Sabrina Cole; and brother, Paul Cole.

Bill is survived by his wife, Christina; son, Charles Cole of Greenview; grandchildren Kaylynn, Elijah, and Robert Cole, and Mackenzie Harper; a sister, Debora (husband, Rodger) Cole-Johnson of San Diego, CA; as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation: Family will receive friends from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 18, 2015 at Boardman-Smith Funeral Home, 800 South Grand Ave. West, Springfield.

Cremation will be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center following visitation.

Memorial contributions may be made to Memorial Medical Center c/o Stroke Center, 701 North First Street, Springfield, IL 62702, or the Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Rd., Springfield, IL 62702.