William Edward Cole

Billy attended John Marshall High School (Class of 1946) and was a member of the John Marshall Cadet Corp Company C. Following graduation, he joined the United States Marine Corps and remained active in the John Marshall Cadet Corps Alumni.

After the Marine Corps, Billy graduated in 1956 from the University of Richmond Business School and began his career at Liggett-Myers. Billy loved to volunteer and was active in numerous youth, track and field and school activities including roles as founding member of the Glen Allen Youth Association, Richmond Track & Field, John Marshall Cadet Corps Alumni Treasurer, Glen Allen Elementary School PTA Treasurer and was known as "The Book Man" at Maude Trevvett Elementary School. The children thought Billy was a member of the library staff because he was frequently there reading with the students.

Billy was a boxer at an early age with the Richmond Police Athletic League but later switched to track and field. Billy, along with three of his "track buddies" (Harold Green, Roy Chernock, Stuart Johnson) set a Master's Division world record on June 19, 1980 for the 4 x 400 meter relay at 52 years of age.

Billy is survived by his wife of 63 years, Gladys B. Cole. He was the love of her life, as well as, the best Dad and Poppa ever to his large extended family. Billy was also survived by his brother, Bobby Cole (Jo Anne), his four children, Linda, Charlie (Ann), Lisa (Mike) and Karen. He is survived by 8 grandchildren, Amy, Angela, Alisha, Andrea, Amanda, Joey, Kevin and Galen and 13 great-grandchildren Kelsey, Trey, Peyton, Grayson, Melaina, Gunnar, Nathaniel, Leah, Addie, Max, Brodie, Tenley and Maddie Grace.

The family would like to extend our sincere thanks to Scott, Cindy and Taylor for the in-home care they provided and to his Nurses, Cherie and Kendra. They were a great comfort and support to Billy and the entire family.

Family visitation will be at the Atlee Chapel of the Woody Funeral Home at 9271 Shady Grove Road on Friday, March 18 from 5-8pm . A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 19 at 12:00pm at Westhampton Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations to your favorite charity in memory of Billy are requested.