Lee Denton Cole

She was born December 26, 1942, in Waldron, Arkansas, grew up in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and graduated from Fort Smith High School. She then attended the Baptist School of Nursing in Little Rock and went on to spend many years serving others as a registered nurse.

Lee was proceeded in death by her loving parents, Dutch and Ruth Denton.

She is survived by her loving husband of 52 years, Jason Cole; sister Connie Christiansen and husband Patrick; nephew Bart Kincannon and wife Susan; great-nephews Jack and Joseph Kincannon and great-niece Beth Kincannon; and niece Katy Marshall and husband Chris, along with great-nephew Wyatt Stepp.

Lee dedicated her career to caring for others. As an Area Nurse Supervisor for the Arkansas Department of Health, she oversaw nine counties and was widely regarded as an expert in tuberculosis treatment and prevention.

Outside of her work, Lee loved the outdoors and the life she built with Jason by her side. Together they traveled across the country camping, hunting, hiking, and floating rivers.

Lee was a longtime member of Springdale Country Club, where she enjoyed playing golf and competing in tournaments. She twice won the Women’s Club Championship.

She was also an exceptionally talented competitive shooter. In 1986, she placed second in the International Combat Pistol Competition. In the two years prior, she was named National Action Pistol Women’s Champion at the Bianchi Cup and Steel Challenge World Champion. Her exceptional marksmanship was admired by many.

She loved her God, her family, and her country, and she was deeply proud of America and of the men and women who serve it.

Lee also had a special love for animals, especially her cats—Coco, Hummer, and Bear.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the charity of your choice.

Lee was loved by many and will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

A private family service will be held under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Fort Smith, Arkansas.