Obituary

George Oliver Cole, Sr.

February 5, 1937 — June 1, 2026

“A good name is better than precious ointment, And the day of death than the day of one's birth.”
Ecclesiastes 7:1 (KJV)

On June 1, 2026, our beloved George Oliver Cole, Sr., was called from this earthly tabernacle to his eternal home in the heavenly gardens. He departed this life surrounded by family and loved ones. Brother Cole lived a life rooted in faith, hard work, service, and love for his family and community. His legacy of wisdom, strength, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

George Oliver Cole, Sr. was born on February 5, 1937, to the late George Cole and Hazel Angelica Williams. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Howard and Rosa Williams; his brother, Richard Brown, Jr.; and his lifelong best friend, McArthur Dawson.

Brother Cole was never afraid of hard work. He dedicated 50 years of faithful service to Tulane Primate Center in Covington, LA, where he earned the respect and admiration of coworkers through his diligence, dependability, and strong work ethic. And to many there, he was known as “Wody”. He found great pleasure in traveling, camping, and fostering genuine connections through thoughtful conversations with individuals from all walks of life.

Throughout his spiritual journey, Brother George Cole was a dedicated member of Midway Church of Christ Holiness USA in Folsom, Louisiana, and later continued his faith and fellowship at Union Chapel AME Church, where he remained a faithful member until his homegoing. He served as a devoted member of the Louisiana Prince Hall Affiliated Masons through Consent Lodge No. 236 in Covington, Louisiana, for more than 54 years. His commitment to the Craft was marked by honor, integrity, and distinguished leadership. Among his many accomplishments, he proudly served as Worshipful Master for over a decade, demonstrating unwavering dedication and service to his fellow brothers and community.

Above all else, Brother Cole will be remembered for the life he lived, the wisdom he shared, and the love he gave so freely. His presence brought comfort, laughter, and guidance to so many. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy will continue to live through the family he cherished, the community he served, and the countless lives he impacted.

Brother Cole was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, faithful friend, and respected community leader. He leaves to cherish his precious memories his devoted and caring wife, Josephine Cole, whose love and companionship blessed his life for many years.

He also leaves behind his loving children: George (Gabrielle) Cole, Jr., Cynthia Guice, Diane Brumfield of Folsom, Louisiana, Timothy Cole of Humble, Texas, Janet Severan of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Donna Marie Penn of Roseland, Louisiana. He was further blessed with bonus children whom he dearly loved: Valicia (Bobby Tate) of Orlando, Florida; Chanda (Daniel Robertson); and Reginald Dyson of Kentwood, Louisiana. Brother Cole was the proud grandfather of ten grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy and pride to his life.

He also leaves to cherish his memory a devoted caregiver, Antionette Warren, who became much more like a daughter to him through her unwavering love, compassion, and care. In addition, he leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, brothers of the Masonic Order, and countless friends whose lives were touched by his wisdom and generosity.

“Surely he will never be shaken; The righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance.” — Psalm 112:6 (KJV)

A visitation will be held on Friday, June 12, 2026 from 5:00PM – 7:00PM at Crain and Sons Funeral Home in Franklinton, LA.

Funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 12:00Noon at Union Chapel AME Church 23011 Silver Creek Rd Kentwood, LA 70444 with Rev. Gary T. Porter - Pastor Officiating. 

Crain and Sons Funeral Home - Franklinton are in charge of arrangements.