Billy Cole put down his worries on December 21, 2025, at the age of 83. He is predeceased by his brother, James. He is survived by his sister, Kate Ogden, 3 children, Kelly, Scottie, and Will, 8 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren, with more on the way.
Although his name was Billy, we only ever called him 'Dad' and 'Papa'. He loved his family above all else, and we are thankful from the bottom of our hearts for that gift. The surfaces of his house were covered with family photos, and he had a calendar of everybody's birthdays & anniversaries. He always reminded us of those dates.
Dad eagerly anticipated the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays every year, because these were the times that we all came together. For more than 20 years, the whole family has been able to gather at least once a year. He instilled the importance of family in all of us, and because of him, we have enjoyed decades of wonderful memories together. We will carry on his spirit in the years to come.
Papa had a sweet tooth with a root that must have run down to his toes. He could put away a pint of ice cream in one sitting, then stand back up to grab a chocolate bar with almonds. He had a real love and appreciation for music, especially classical and blues. He swore he couldn't sing, but he had a warm baritone voice and could sometimes be caught humming along to his favorite tunes.
Dad never stopped being curious. He was known to keep encyclopedias as bathroom reading material, and he lived in awe of our age of technology. He was deeply interested in politics and economics, and he was a fiercely proud US citizen who cherished the ideals of democracy. He often said that he dreamed of waking up one day and reading a news headline declaring "Peace on Earth."
Papa enjoyed peace and solitude, and he did not want a public funeral service. We will respect his wishes, and his immediate family will gather privately to celebrate his life. He also wished to be cremated and often joked that we could place his ashes in a mayonnaise jar. We will honor his wishes for cremation, and we hope that he will forgive us should we use a less sticky container.
In lieu of sending flowers and condolences, we ask that you take an extra moment to cherish and care for your loved ones.
Dad, Papa, we love you and will miss you. Rest in peace with your Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. You take care of Willyam.
