JoAnn Cole

On Thursday, August 26, 2021, JoAnn Cole, loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend, passed away at the age of 74. She is survived by her husband of 41 years Robert Cole, daughter Jennifer Dillman of Abilene, son Jeffrey Cole of North Ft. Worth, grandchildren Ashley Ham, Madison Korte, Austin Cole and Abbey Ham.

JoAnn was born February 28, 1947 in Arkansas. She grew up around the Little Rock area where she loved to swim and water-ski. She attended the University of Arkansas where she received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. She went on to pursue a Master’s Degree in Nurse Education at UT Arlington. JoAnn knew from the time she was in 4th grade that this was what she was destined to do, and she was great at it! JoAnn was an RN at several local area hospitals where she helped start up several cardiac ICU Units. While working at Parkland Hospital, she would meet the love of her life who had the most beautiful curly locks! JoAnn went on to write a booklet called “Taking Care of Your Heart”. She also started the nursing volunteer program called “The Nightingales” at Baylor Plano. JoAnn served the medical community for 40 years before she retired.

JoAnn was always happy to serve others. She enjoyed the successes of her patients as well as the accomplishments of her grandkids. She loved to travel, cook, entertain family and friends and was known to host many large family gatherings. Her family always held a special place in her heart. She was always striving to help them accomplish their goals. Many nieces and nephews have called her home the “Cole Halfway House” as they were almost ready to fly, but not quite ready to leave the nest. She loved to play games, watch movies, watch high school baseball and football, and loved to dance! She was known to wear out the kitchen floor!

JoAnn never wavered in her commitment to God, Family and her Profession. Many of us have benefitted from her insight, caring, compassion and understanding. Her legacy will be the success of her family as they go through life’s journey. She loved the Lord and held him high. She left with no regrets and lots of love for her family and friends. As we all go through this next journey, please always remember: Happy Trails to you…..until we meet again!

A memorial service for JoAnn will be held Monday, August 30, 2021 at 11:00 AM at Rolling Oaks Funeral Home, 400 Freeport Pkwy, Coppell, Texas 75019.