James Arthur Cole

James (Jim, Mini-man, Jimbo) A. Cole went to fly with the angels December 13, 2023. Born in Clearwater, Florida on November 10, 1971, small but mighty, he overcame multiple health issues throughout his life. He attended UPARC until integrated into the Pinellas County School System at Paul B. Stephens Exceptional. He was fortunate to have many amazing and dedicated teachers and specialists throughout his school years. Jim graduated from the public school system in 1993, attending Adult Day Programs until he officially retired, preferring to not awaken at 5:30 AM but to sleep in with his now retired dad!

Jim was active in Special Olympics and a participant in many of his brothers sports activities. If there was a soccer ball in play, it wasn’t unusual for Jim to have “contact” if it bounced out of bounds. If at the beach with his brothers he was a ”chick magnet” with his giggles and winning smiles. Jim’s favorite music was Country Western and rocking out in the arms of loved ones.

Jim is predeceased by his father Michael Cole and Aunt Deb Redick (Gary). And survived by his mother, Judy Sackmann Cole, his brothers Michael (Errin), John (Liza), nieces Alison and Jenna, nephews Brent and Max. Jim also leaves behind his Aunt Carol Sackmann (Michael), Uncles Brent (Jane) Cole, John (Sandy) Sackmann and Great Uncle Noel Tanneur, and many cousins and extended family. A special thank you to Ms. Regina, Gabby, Destiny, Hunter and Justin. Jim will be held in our hearts forever and we will remember his love, courage, strength of will and resilience throughout his life.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you for all the support and love given to Jim from our friends and families over the years. Rest in peace Jim. Your zest for life and the joy and love you brought to all will not be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to S.P.C.A., Largo, Florida www.spcatampabay.org or the Cornelia de Lange Foundation www.cdlsusa.org

A celebration of life will be held at the end of January and we will notify all family and friends when these arrangements have been made.