Barbara Ann Cole

Obituary For Barbara Ann Cole

Barbara “Bobbie” Ann Cole, 91, passed away Sunday, August 27th, 2023 in Nocona, Texas.

Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday September 2nd, at St. William Catholic Church in Montague, with Father Albert Kanjirathumkal, Celebrant.

Burial will follow at Montague Catholic Cemetery.

Viewing will be on Friday, September 1st, from 6 PM to 8 PM at the White Family Funeral Home in Bowie Texas.

Barbara Cole, affectionately known as "Bobbie," was born in December 1931 to Lawrence and Letha Mersch in Fairbank, Iowa. She grew up in the same town, where she laid the foundation for a life that would touch the hearts of many. Her journey took her far and wide, encompassing both the joys of family and the adventures of the world.

It was during her time at Fort Sheridan’s Officers Club that Bobbie's path crossed with Bud Cole, a meeting that would shape the course of both their lives. They embarked on a journey together, spanning 55 years of marriage, during which they explored the globe as Bud pursued a career in both the military and civilian sectors. Bobbie's steadfast presence and support were instrumental in Bud's success, as she worked alongside him at Safety Kleen Corp, contributing significantly to his achievements.

Even after Bud's retirement from Safety Kleen, Bobbie's dedication persisted. She continued her professional journey as an Executive Assistant with Johnson Controls, leaving an indelible mark until her own retirement in 1995.

Bobbie's legacy is one of strength, dedication, and love. She is preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Letha Mersch, her beloved husband Bud Cole, and her sisters Pat "Doris" Garvey, Kay Regenold, and Mary Lee Kramer.

Bobbie's role as the matriarch of her family was cherished beyond measure. She leaves behind a profound impact on her children and their families: Victoria Ann Cole, Gerald Lee Cole and Darla Driskell, Patricia Kay Simmel and her husband Matt of Denton, Lawrence Earl Cole and his wife Connie of Highland Village, and Ronald Patrick Cole and his wife Judy of Round Rock. In addition to her children, Bobbie is survived by eleven grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren, a testament to the love and care she nurtured in her family.

As we say goodbye to Bobbie, let us remember her as a beacon of strength, a devoted partner, a loving mother, and a cherished friend. Her legacy will forever echo in the lives she touched and the memories she created. May she find eternal peace in the embrace of her loved ones who passed before her, and may her memory continue to inspire us all.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Bobbie's name to www.friendsofthebowieanimalshelter.org, an organization that was close to her heart.

Arrangements entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home of Bowie, TX.