Obituary of John Jimmie Cole

Mr. John Jimmie Cole, age 88, of Lugoff, SC, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 7, 2023. Born on October 30, 1935, in Decatur, GA, John grew up on a farm in rural Georgia, enlisted in the Air Force out of high school, went to college to major in Education, and spent his career in public service teaching, serving as principal, and serving as guidance counselor in several public schools in Georgia and South Carolina, with the last 20 years of his career at Lugoff-Elgin High School.

John’s most repeated comment was, “The LORD has been so gracious to me.” Those who knew him know that beneath his tough exterior, his heart was generous and full of love, willing to help those in need. He spent his retirement traveling all 50 of our United States, visiting his family, and when at home, he spent most of his free time in his garden. Growing things was undoubtedly a gift given to him by God.

John is survived by his wife of 34 years, Peggy Cole; children and spouses, Lisa Cole, Jay and Cindy Cole, Kristi and Jay Freeman, Jemme Hinson; grandchildren and spouses, Dustin Cole, J.T. Cole, Lizzy Cole, Zack and Julie Freeman, Annabeth and Gunnar Friesen, Avery Hinson, Zoe Hinson, and Bella Hinson; great-grandchild, Anastasia Freeman; by marriage, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, including Joey and Jessica Foody; and many nieces, nephews.

Mr. Cole was preceded in death by his parents, John and Geneva Cole of Snellville, GA; brother, Tommy Maurice Cole of Conyers, GA; sister, Elizabeth Sullivan of Snellville, GA; and sister, Sarah Bowman of Bowling Green, OH.

A celebration of life service for John will be held Sunday, November 12, at 2:00 pm at Rowan Presbyterian Church with Rev. Dr. Stephen Jordan, officiating.

Burial will follow at Longtown Presbyterian Church, Ridgeway.

Family will receive friends before the service in the Fellowship Hall of Rowan Presbyterian Church starting at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the glory of God through Rowan Presbyterian Church in Lugoff, SC.