John J. Cole

Beloved brother and uncle, John Cole, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Branson on Friday, April 14, 2023.

John Jennings Cole was born on November 16, 1958 in Eupora, Mississippi.  He was one of six children born to George & Alta (Ward) Cole. John grew up in Mississippi and graduated from Raleigh High School.  He started his college education at Jones Junior College and later graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi.  He taught elementary school for over 20 years.  He lived many years in New Orleans, LA before moving to Branson.  He loved New Orleans and always enjoyed the festivities and celebration during Mardi Gras.  He moved to Branson fourteen years ago.  He was employed several years with the Hampton Inn in Branson.  John was a gifted pianist and singer.  He also enjoyed the water and swimming. 

He will be deeply missed by his family, sister, Ann Cole of Maben, MS; brother, Ted W. Cole & wife Rita of Maben, MS; sister, Elizabeth Lupo and husband Jason of Tallulah, LA; nieces and nephews, Jennifer Cole, Amy Snider, Nathan Garrard, Sarah Church, Kassandra Thompson, Eric Cole, and Emma Lupo along with extended family and friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents, George and Alta; two brothers, Thomas Sherman Cole and George Robert Cole and one nephew, Cole Ward Snider.

The family will hold services in Cumberland, MS for John with private family burial.

In John’s memory, donations in lieu of flowers are requested to the Mississippi Baptist Student Union.  Local arrangements are under the direction of Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory, Branson.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John J. Cole, please visit our floral store.