Paul Richard Cole Sr.
Born on August 25, 1947, in Long Branch, New JerseyPassed on September 13, 2025 in Melbourne, Florida
🕊 In Loving Memory
Paul Richard Cole Sr. 1947 – 2025
Originally from Long Branch, New Jersey and moved to Melbourne, Florida in 2016, passed away peacefully at home.
💞 Survived By
Paul is lovingly remembered by his wife of 55 years, Wandy, and their three children:
Melisa Anne Cole Hofer (Rob Sr.)
Children: Darrin, Robert Jr. (Andrea), Heather (Katie)
Paula Cole Thorne (significant other Gary Rice, and the late Randy A. Thorne Sr.)
Children: Tiffany, Randy Jr.
Paul Richard Cole Jr. (Tiffany)
Children: Briceson, Julia-Ann
Predeceased by his parents and brother
Marshall and Dorothy Cole
Marshall Jr.
Also survived by his sisters:
Virginia Beach (Ronald)
Dorothy Hacker
Paul also leaves behind many cherished family members and friends.
🇺🇸 A Life of Service
Paul worked as a carpenter with his father (Cole Builders) and eventually took over the business. He also worked as a truck driver. He proudly served in the United States Air Force.
🙏 A Man of Faith
Paul was a longtime member of First Assembly of God Church in Shrewsbury, NJ, serving as a door greeter and usher. After moving to Florida, he joined Lighthouse Assembly of God, where he served as a deacon, usher/greeter, communion preparer, and custodian. He especially loved Thursday prayer meetings and breakfast with his pastor.
🦌 Community & Passions
Paul joined the Elks Lodge 742 in 1983, serving as:
Inner Guard (1986–1987)
Exalted Ruler (1993–1994)
Trustee (1994–1999)
Honorary Lifetime Member
He was also active in the American Legion, first in Deal, NJ, and later in Post 81, Melbourne, where he enjoyed Friday dinners and fellowship.
Paul loved communing with the Lord, doing his daily devotions, deer hunting, fishing, golfing, taking long walks with his wife, enjoyed working in his yard, watching football and NASCAR. He was a proud diehard fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers, and favorite NASCAR drivers included Rusty Wallace, Tony Stewart, and Martin Truex Jr. He also enjoyed watching the old westerns and FOX News.
🕯️ Service Detail
Vastation: Sept. 19, 2025; 10:00 a.m. Celebration of Life: 11:00 a.m. with luncheon to follow.
Location: Lighthouse Assembly of God, 26 West Fee Ave, Melbourne, FL 32901
🌹 In Lieu of Flowers
Donations may be made to:
Lighthouse Assembly of God – 26 West Fee Ave, Melbourne, FL
American Legion Post 81 – 2909 S Harbor City Blvd., Melbourne. FL
Grave Site Committal will take place at a later date at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery.
