James Cole, 102, passed away on Tuesday, May 25, 2021, in Brownstown, Indiana.   

He was born on Sept. 1, 1918, in Alger, Ohio, to the late Turner and Merkie (Perkins) Cole. On April 16, 1938, James married Margaret J. Matheny, who preceded him in death on April 16, 2014.   

James was a World War II veteran in the United States Air Force serving from 1942-1945. He served in the European Theatre and participated in the Battle of the Bulge. He worked in the West Virginia coal mines, owned and operated Cole’s Service Station, Alger, for many years.  He retired to South Carolina where he helped build a church and his home. James owned and operated some apartments in Columbia, South Carolina. He taught Sunday school for many years and loved the Lord and has now passed on to be with our Lord and loved ones who have gone before him.

James and Margaret had two daughters: Ruth Ann (Lee) Grismore of Brownstown, Indiana, and Judith Kay who preceded him in death. He was also married to the late Mary Deri and they had a son, Ronald (Barbara) Cole of Evansville, Indiana. James has seven grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren.  

He had five brothers: Lloyd, Shady, Lacy, Burgess and Edward; and five sisters: Bessie Oliver, Rosie Oliver, Elizabeth Cole, Donna Hackworth and Roxie Cole all whom preceded him in death.

Graveside services will begin at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 28, at Preston Cemetery, Alger with Rev. Edward Jarrell officiating.