Joe F Cole

Joe Frank Cole, age 90, passed away on Saturday, May 23, 2020, at Mansfield Methodist Hospital after a brief, health-related episode. He resided at Midtowne Assisted Living in Midlothian, TX, as did his wife of 63 years, Martha, prior to her death one year ago. Joe was a member of First Baptist Church of Mansfield, TX. Joe was the youngest and only surviving child of Eugene and Era (Johnson) Cole of Paris, TN. His older brothers, Ardell Cole and Bob Cole, and sister, Elizabeth Cole Clark, preceded him in death. Joe attended the School of Music at The Union University in Jackson, TN, where he met his wife, Martha. Then the two attended the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, New Orleans, LA, where he received his bachelor's degree in church music. Prior to attending The Union University, Joe was drafted into service in the United States Army, stationed in a combat area in Korea from 1950-1952. He was placed in the 1st Cavalry Division of the 5th Cavalry Regiment and completed his tour with the rank of Corporal in the Army. Joe was a gifted singer and continued to bless listeners with his high tenor voice until the end. He also played the spoons. Joe served local churches in music ministry, often in combination with education and youth. The hallmark of his ministry was forming graded choir programs for children and youth that fed into stronger adult choir programs and often fostered singers or church pianists or music teachers because of an early exposure to music theory and correct vocal production. He and Martha served congregations in Tennessee, Louisiana, Alabama, Kentucky, and Georgia. He also worked ten years for the Georgia State Department of Labor before his retirement.