James M. Cole a longtime resident of Abingdon, died September 15, 2017 from Alzheimer’s and a broken heart. Born July 13, 1927 in Farmville, Virginia to Edith Bonham and Madison Bishop Cole, James was preceded in death by his two siblings, Betty and Florence. His wife of 68 years, Gene R. Cole predeceased him by five months. Survivors include two sons, James M. Cole, Jr., and Dr. Randolph (Pamela) Cole, and grandchildren Dr. Sara Cole of California, and Christopher Cole of Marion.

James had an early and life-long interest in electronics and jazz. As a teen in Chilhowie, Virginia he ran the projector at the local theatre, raised chickens, played trumpet in the school band, and ran a small radio repair shop. He served in the Navy during WWII, graduated from Virginia Tech in 1950 with a degree in engineering, and spent his entire career with Appalachian Power Company electrifying Southwest Virginia, generating power at Carbo, and finally serving as personnel manager. James was a giver and a great story teller. A longtime member of the Abingdon United Methodist Church, he sang in the choir, was Scout Master of Troop 222, and kept the PA system working for many years. He was a local leader in civil defense and emergency communications, commander of the local civil air patrol, member IEEE, ham radio club, antique radio club, an adjunct professor at VHCC for over 20 years, and a member of the VHCC Foundation. At one point, he was the longest serving volunteer for the town of Abingdon as a member and then Chair of the Board of Zoning Appeals. Many friends, neighbors, and strangers benefitted from his giving of time and talents. He always tithed and then gave even more. Others who have gone before will rejoice in seeing him again.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, September 23, 2017, at St. James Lutheran Cemetery in Chilhowie.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to your favorite charity.

FROST FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, ABINGDON, IS HONORED TO SERVE THE COLE FAMILY.