Joseph Edward Cole, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and joy that will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew him.
Joe is survived by his loving wife, Bette C. Cole and sister, Julie C. Wood. Joe was also a proud father to Joseph E. Cole, Jr. and Rebecca A. Nell Burd, and a cherished stepfather to Jennifer L. McCoy. He was also a special grandfather to Joseph E. Cole, III, Victoria E. Cole, Sadieanne J. Cole, Charlie F. Huffman, Courtney M. McCoy, and Carter M. McCoy. He also leaves behind Roy Wood, Claudia N. Cole, and Scott D. White.
Joe was a constant source of encouragement, and his family was his greatest pride. He was their unwavering supporter, provider, and hero. He was predeceased by his parents, Alonzo Fred Cole and Francis C. Cole of Tallapoosa, Georgia, and his birth parents, Maylene Marko and Linville Buchanan.
During the Vietnam War, Joe proudly served his country as a United States Navy Radioman. His commitment to service extended beyond active duty, as he remained a many-year member of the military reserves and ultimately earned title as a Lieutenant and an Intelligence Officer in the United States Navy -a testament to his enduring patriotism and dedication. Throughout his military service, Joe earned numerous accolades and awards.
Following his military service, Joe earned his degree from the University of Tennessee and worked as an auditor for the Internal Revenue Service and then the Pension Benefits Guarantee Corporation.
Born at Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Joe was adopted and lovingly raised by “Fred” and Francis Cole. Their nurturing spirit shaped the man who would become a pillar of strength and compassion for his own family.
Throughout his youth, Joe was active in the Boy Scouts, eventually earning the distinguished title of Star Scout. He also had a lifetime love for music-especially The Beatles. And, he found immense joy in listening to live performances, singing in the church choir, and dancing with his beloved wife, Bette, with whom he shared a beautiful and enduring marriage of over 22 years.
Known for his warmth and generosity of spirit and love, and for his fun-loving grins, Joe loved entertaining and playing cards with friends and family. He was an avid reader, traveler, and a man who found joy in the simple pleasures of life. His humility, humor, and zest for living made him a cherished friend and role model.
Joe’s legacy is one of love, honor, determination, and inspiration. Joe showed those who knew him the value of kindness, the importance of service, and the beauty of a life well-lived. His memory will continue to guide and uplift all who were fortunate enough to know him.
He is now reunited with his loving parents and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of sharing in his remarkable life journey.
Rest in peace, Joe.
Service information: There will be a funeral service in Florida and a memorial service in Maryland. A viewing will be held from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. on November 4, 2025, at Beyers Funeral Home located at 134 N. Hwy 27/441 in Lady Lake, FL, followed by a military service with honors at 1 p.m. at the VA National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL. A memorial service will be held beginning at 12 p.m.
on November 24, 2025, at Central Presbyterian Church located at 7308 York Rd, Towson, MD.