Jerry Dale Cole

Jerry Dale Cole, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 28th 2025. He was born on January 10, 1944, in Winfield, Kansas, to Myrtle and George Cole. Jerry was a man of faith, dedication, and love for his family, who will always cherish his memory.

Jerry graduated from Udall High School in 1963 and went on to marry Carol Cole on March 25, 1969. Together, they shared 53 years of love, partnership, and memories. Jerry was a devoted father to his three children: Sherry Leach, Joanna Richards, and Jennifer Wiseman, and a proud grandfather to his many grandchildren and great-grandchild.

In his earlier years, Jerry drove a school bus for Kirwin while also serving as the pastor of the local Nazarene Church. After moving his family to Belle Plaine, Kansas, Jerry continued to serve his community, teaching an adult Sunday school class, and even spent a brief time as a Shriner. He later retired from Boeing after many years of dedicated service as a machinist.

Outside of work and ministry, Jerry had a deep love for the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, woodworking, and most of all, spending time with his family. His kindness, wisdom, and gentle spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Myrtle and George Cole, his sister, Madge Schueneman, and his brother, Bill Cole. He is survived by his loving wife, Carol Cole; his three children, Sherry Leach (husband Grant), Joanna Richards (husband Frank), and Jennifer Wiseman (husband Richard); his grandchildren, Trent Willis (wife Megan), Bryan Willis (wife Anna), Emma Willis, Kinley Leach, Ethan Bonnell (wife Nicole), Gabe Richards, Jeremy Cole, and David Wiseman; and his great-grandchild, Fulton Willis. He is also survived by his brothers, David Cole (wife Cynthia) and Leroy Cole (wife Jeanett), along with many extended family members and friends.

A memorial service will be held at Smith Mortuary in Derby Ks on March 5th at 10:00 am, Viewing Tuesday the 4th from 5-7 pm., with donations in Jerry’s memory directed to Derby Church of the Nazarene. Graveside services and interment will follow in the Udall Cemetery, Udall, KS.

Jerry’s legacy of love, faith, and family will forever be remembered, and his spirit will continue to guide those who loved him.

Rest in Peace, Jerry Dale Cole.