WILLIAM HENRY COLE

William Henry Cole, born October 14, 1950, peacefully entered into eternal rest on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at Mary Washington Hospital in Fredericksburg, Virginia. He answered the Lord’s call surrounded by love and leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and quiet strength. William was born to the late Emma and Henry Cole of King George, Virginia. He was also preceded in death by his beloved brother, Gregory Cole (Jean Frye Shanklin). From an early age, William learned the value of hard work, responsibility, and caring for others, qualities that would define his entire life. He received his early education in the King George County School System and went on to dedicate more than thirty years of faithful service to the sand and gravel industry as a skilled mechanic. Known for his diligence and reliability, William took great pride in his work. Even after retirement, his strong work ethic never wavered. He continued working at Local Services as a truck driver always striving to provide and remain productive until his health began to fail. In his everyday life, William was a man of order, routine, and purpose. He found joy in outdoor work and was especially delighted in using his zero-turn lawnmower, a source of pride and simple pleasure. He loved grilling and cooking for his family, cherishing those moments of togetherness around food, laughter, and conversation.  Family meant everything to William. Loyal, kind-hearted, and dependable, William embraced his role as the oldest of four sons. He saw himself as the caretaker, provider, and nurturer of his family, a responsibility he carried with humility and love. His presence brought a sense of stability and reassurance to those around him. Later in life, William made one of the most meaningful decisions of his journey when he accepted the Lord as his Savior under the leadership of Reverend Irving Woolfolk, Jr. He joined Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he became a faithful and dedicated member. He served proudly on the Usher Board and in the Men’s Ministry, offering his time and heart in service to God and the church community he grew to love deeply. On August 4, 1971, William was united in holy matrimony with Ann Elizabeth Washington, the love of his life. For fifty-four beautiful years, they walked hand in hand, working side by side to build a life rooted in commitment, perseverance, and love. Together they raised two sons, Charles and Phillip, instilling in them life lessons, practical skills, and strong values through William’s guidance, leadership, and example. His love for his family was unwavering and evident in all he did.