Kenneth Ray “Red’ Cole of Garland passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, with family by his side at Christian Care Nursing and Rehab in Mesquite.

He was born on April 27, 1934, in North Zulch to Jake Raymond Cole and Lilla Morgan Cole.

He graduated from Madisonville High School in 1953 and attended Sam Houston State University. He was a basketball player in high school and advanced to the state playoffs. He loved boating, water sports, playing forty-two, and being with his family.

Mr. Cole was a photoengraver for over 40 years and an original partner of Engravers, Inc.

He was a member of Shiloh Terrace Baptist Church since 1960.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jake and Lilla Cole; brothers Manuel Cole, Leon “Coon” Cole, and John Floyd “Possum’ Cole; sisters Mavis Cole Boswell and Nelva Cole Pratt; and daughter-in-law, Joyce Lyon Cole.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Barbara; his daughter Karen Cole Brecheen and her husband Dan; son Bradley Forrest Cole and four grandchildren, Adam Brecheen and wife Chrissy, Jason Brecheen, Jake Cole, and wife Jessica, Amanda Cole Chamberlain, and husband Travis; and ten great-grandchildren Landon, William and Chloe Brecheen;

Drew Thompson; Reagan, Bennett, and Peyton Cole; Grayson, Aidan Ray, and Ethan Chamberlain. He is also survived by sister Gracie Sanders of Frankston, Texas, and a number of nieces and nephews.

Services were held on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, at Sand Prairie Baptist Church, with interment in George Cemetery at Normangee. (George community). Pastor Larry Andrews officiated. Pallbearers were Jason Brecheen, Adam Brecheen, Jake Cole, Travis Chamberlain, David Cole, and John Cole.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to all the Christian Care Nursing and Hospice caregivers who have been such a blessing and SO much support during this difficult time.

Arrangements were with Cozart Funeral Home in Normangee.