Harold Cole Jr.

Harold, 93-years-old, was born in Danville, VA on December 23, 1928, the son of Harold E. Cole, Sr. and Dorothy Walter Cole.  He served in the United States Air Force during the Korean conflict from 1950 to 1953 and was with the City of Danville Electric Division from 1953 to 1987, at which time he retired as the division Director with 34 years of service.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Farish Cole; two daughters, Betty C. Quesada (husband Robert) and Kelly C. Wall; two granddaughters, Danielle Q. Long (husband Brett) and Leslie Q. Barber (husband Scott); one grandson, Nicholas R. Quesada; and two great-grandchildren, Savannah Q. Long and Madelyn G. Long.

Services will be at Masonboro Baptist Church on Friday, January 21, 2022.  Viewing and visitation begins at 10am in the church sanctuary, followed by the funeral at 11am.  A burial will follow the service in the cemetery behind the church.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Masonboro Baptist Church Benevolence Fund, 1501 Beasley Road, Wilmington, NC 28409.

It is very difficult to put into words the depth of love and devotion that we feel for this wonderful man, who was the epitome of a true Southern gentleman.  Throughout his lifetime, Dad was a constant and comforting influence on all of our lives.  We never had to worry for we always knew that he was at our backs, steadying us, always ready to help in any difficulty or provide any answers to questions we may have. “Let’s call Dad and see what he says,” was a common phrase amongst our family.  We are so proud of him and the life he lived – he was honest, hard-working, faithful, loyal, and dependable.  He had a happy retirement, travelling with Mom and enjoying life at home with his family.  If something was broken at any of our houses, he fixed it.  If something needed painting, he painted it.  He kept our cars (and lives) running smoothly.  He loved anything to do with airplanes of all kinds, he loved stretching back in his recliner to watch TCM films and Gunsmoke, he enjoyed attending church, helping others there with their needs and, after Sunday services, we had a happy ritual of eating lunch together before the work week began.  Dad never let us leave the house or get off the phone without telling us he loved us, and we are so lucky to have had so many years with him, so that we could hear those words and tell him how much he was loved in return.  Two great-grandchildren will be born later this year, and we will be sure to tell them all the stories about their Great-Grandpa.  We know he is with us and that we will see him again one day.  We love you so very much, Daddy, and we thank you with all of our hearts.