Linda Cooley Cole

Linda Beth Cooley Cole passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family. Ms. Cole was born on June 29, 1944, to the late Otha Carl Sr. and Hazel Cooley.

In addition to her parents, Linda is preceded in death by her loving husband, James Leroy Cole; her brother, Steve W. Cooley; her father and mother-in-law, Somner Leroy and Annie Elizabeth Cole and brother-in law, Paul E. Womble Jr.

Linda was raised in the Bethesda Community, where she cherished her childhood growing up on her family's dairy farm, fondly known as "The Bethesda Dairy." Her early years on the farm instilled in her a deep appreciation for hard work and the simple joys of life.

Linda was married to the love of her life for 55 years, a bond that remained strong and enduring throughout their life together. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her grandchildren brought immense joy to her life and held a huge place in her heart.

A woman of faith, Linda was a longtime member of Calvary Baptist Church in Durham. While attending Calvary she enjoyed many years serving on the flower committee. After moving to Wake Forest she then became a member of Woodland Baptist Church in Wake Forest, North Carolina. Her church communities were an important part of her spiritual journey and personal connections.

Linda had many passions that she shared generously with those around her. She loved preparing home-cooked meals and desserts for family and friends, creating warm memories around the table. Gardening—both vegetables and flowers—was another source of great joy for her. An avid sports fan of all sports, she especially enjoyed cheering on the UNC Tar Heels basketball team. She enjoyed the many nights of playing multiple Bingo cards with friends.

During her working years at DC May, North Carolina State, Estates Division and Mount White Hudson & Carden Attorneys she made lots of memories and friends. For 13 years, Linda volunteered in the Granville County schools (Wilton Elementary, CG Credle Elementary and Tar River Elementary), forming lasting friendships and finding deep fulfillment in supporting students and staff alike.

Her warmth, dedication to family, and joyful spirit will be remembered by all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to those whose lives she touched.

Linda is survived by one daughter, Susan B. Cole (James Donald); one son, Bryant J. Cole (Stephanie); Six grandchildren, Alayna N. Moss, Chloe T. Cole, Auden W. Cole and Finn B. Cole, Elise N. Harr (Drew) and Masin J. Donald; One sister, Betty C. Perry; Two sisters-in-law, Dot Womble and, Judy (Mike) Erdesky; One brother-in-law Freddy Cole and special nieces, nephew and cousins.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 P.M. to 2:30 P.M. on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at Hudson Funeral Home, 211 S. Miami Blvd., Durham, NC 27703.

A Graveside service will be held following the visitation, at 3:00 P.M. at Brier Creek Memorial Gardens, 7600 ACC Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27617. Rev. Ben Fuller will officiate.

Flowers are acceptable or donations may be made in Linda’s memory to Amedisys Foundation, 3320 US-1, Suite B, Franklinton, NC 27525.