Barbara Joyce Cole's Obituary
Barbara Joyce Presswood Cole was born on February 25, 1960 in San Antonio, Texas. She passed away on August 2, 2016 at her home in Rockwall, Texas after a valiant battle with cancer. Barbara is survived by her husband of 33 years, Holley Cole, and their children Preston Cole, Kelly & Jay Kemp and grandson Knox; and Payton Cole, as well as her loving sister-in-law, Liz Cole and extended family members. In addition to her beloved family, Barbara is survived by an enormous “family of friends.” She is preceded in death by her parents, John and Betty Presswood. Barbara was raised in the First Baptist Church of Dallas and was active in all children’s and student programs. She graduated from Lake Highlands High School and attended Baylor University. Along the way she met a handsome football player from Woodrow Wilson High School named Holley Cole, whom she married. Together they had a beautiful family. Barbara’s professional life included working as an editor for Taylor Publishing, and then over a decade of service at First Baptist Dallas working in both Music and Student Ministries. Her love for her church was evident in every task. Barbara served for many years at Junior Camp, Youth Camp, and on Chapel Choir tours all over the world. In these roles, she was a witness for Jesus Christ and influenced the lives of countless children, students, and sponsors. Among her most joyful moments were counseling children at Junior Camp and leading many to faith in Christ. She later worked at Vista Academy and the George W. Bush Presidential Center. No matter where Barbara worked or for how long a period of time, she was quickly and greatly loved, admired and respected by her coworkers. Among Barbara’s many gifts were organization, efficiency, friendship, encouragement, compassion, telling stories, listening, advising, being a “second mom” – and making the impossible possible. Barbara’s skills and talents were packaged in warmth, sincerity, generosity, wisdom, love, fun, and above all, laughter. Her sense of humor and infectious laugh made everyone comfortable, and she loved people without judgment. Without a doubt Barbara’s most treasured and important role was being “Mom” and “Bibi.” At those things, Barbara was amazing – and adored. To know Barbara Cole is to celebrate one whose life was well lived, well loved, and will continue to touch hearts. __________ “Have not I commanded you? Be strong, vigorous, and very courageous. Be not afraid, neither be dismayed for the Lord, your God, is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 “I find such immense comfort in our Lord’s words to us!” From Barbara’s Facebook, January 2016 Family will receive friends on Friday, August 5, 2016 from 6:00PM – 8:00PM in The Memorial Chapel at Restland Funeral Home. Services will be held Saturday, August 6, 2016 at 10:00AM at First Baptist -Dallas. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Restland Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, TX 75243.
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