David Joe Cole, 58, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, April 21, 2016 at Holston Valley Medical Center. Born in Kingsport, he was a graduate of Dobyns-Bennett High School where he played on the basketball team. It was during junior high school that he met his best friend and the love of his life, Carolyn. He would always make an excuse to go visit with her and her friend while they were practicing cheerleading in their yard. His charisma and charm won her heart over. They later married and raised three wonderful daughters. David was called to preach and obtained his ministerial license so he could officiate their weddings. His favorite part of the weddings was gaining son in laws. Finally, a balance to the all women household.
David began his career with the Kingsport Police Department in 1983. He was an officer for several years and was promoted to Detective in 1993. He was a compassionate homicide investigator who helped bring closure to many families over the years. He retired from the force in 2013. He continued to support his fellow friends in the force after his retirement.
David had a way of connecting with people to instantly create friendships. Dependable, honest, and trustworthy were just a few of his traits. David worked with the City Television Channel to create a series of unsolved case programs. During this time, he caught the show business bug and wanted to write a TV pilot. He co-wrote and starred in the TV pilot filmed in Weber City called “The Hiltons”. He was fun to work with, a great comedian and he was loved by his fellow cast members who continued to stay in touch years after the filming.
David was a wonderful husband, provider, brother, and father. He was looking forward to his retirement so he could do what he really loved best, spending more time with his family. To his wife Carolyn, he leaves his unwavering companionship and love. To his children, his treasures, he leaves them in God’s care as he watches from Heaven. To all his friends, he leaves us with the incredible joy he felt for life. His laughter, kindness, and love will greatly be missed by all in our community.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred Richard and Imogene Scott Cole.
He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Larkin Cole; children, Christy Woods and husband Kip, Stephanie Oye and husband John, Laura Cole and boyfriend Brian Gardner; sister, Sharon Avanda Cole of Bristol; niece, Robin Brewer; and several aunts, uncles, and grandnephews.
The family will receive friends on Monday, April 25, 2016 from 6pm to 8pm at Higher Ground Baptist Church (Kingsport, TN). A Life Celebration will follow at 8pm with Pastor Dan Birchfield officiating. A special ceremony will be held by the Kingsport Police Department and the Tennessee Highway Patrol to honor his lifelong career and commitment to the force.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Wellmont Hospice House (280 Steeles Rd, Bristol, TN 37620) or to the American Diabetes Association (P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312)
Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (423-723-8177) is honored to serve the family of Mr. Cole. You may visit www.trinitymemorialcenters.com to send a message of condolence or flowers to the family.
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