Born on August 25, 1947, in Long Branch, New Jersey
Passed 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.
15 entries.
Ken and Coleen Connolly
from
Melbourne October 5, 2025
"Well done good and faithful servant.." is what Paul heard when he entered his rest. Paul, a man of faith, modeled a true Servant. We will miss his warm and friendly smile. Wandy and family, Paul has entered into the Joy of his Master!
Dear Sweet Wandy,
My heartfelt condolences to you and your family! I knew Paul later in his life and I remember you going on walks even though it was tough!
Peace and comfort be with you,
Sherri
Alan and MaryJane Hasman
from
Melbourne, FL September 18, 2025
Paul’s promotion to Glory is our loss but Heaven’s gain. Paul was truly a Godly example of what it means to have a servant’s heart. We will miss Paul’s infectious laugh and warm smile. We look forward to the day when we see our dear Brother again in Glory. You stayed the course, you’ve finished your race, now rest easy in our Savior’s arms.
Debby and Frank
from
McKeesport September 17, 2025
So sorry to hear of Paul's passing!
We only lived across the street from him and Wandy for a couple years, but they were great neighbors and wonderful people!
Visiting our 2nd home in Florida was always a relaxing experience whenever we were there...and we always looked forward to seeing them when we were there.
We will miss those times, and cherish our memories!
Dear Wandi,
I'm sorry to hear of Paul's passing. I know you will miss him dearly. God will see you through the difficult days ahead without him.
My condolences,
Willonel M Durant
I have such fond memories of Paul at Shrewsbury AG. In New Jersey.
He was an amazing husband to Wandy. He always had a funny joke as he greeted you.
Wandy we are here for you! My deepest condolences! Hold on to God’s promises that Paul is with our Savior!🙏🏽❤️
Joy and Dave Kinney
from
Taylor Ridge September 17, 2025
Our hearts go out to Paul’s family during this incredibly difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May his memory bring you comfort. Be gentle with yourselves as grief takes time.
You were truly one of my favorite cousins and God knows we have a lot. You will truly be missed. You are home now with your parents and the Lord RIP. We will see each other again. Love you.
Dan&Cathy Dekeyrel
from
Burlington September 17, 2025
So sorry for your loss, Paul was a Great Man husband, Father, Grandfather We always loved spending time with Paul and Wandy when they came to visit Melisa and Rob and the Grandkids He will be truly missed by many Sending hugs,Prayers ,and Love to all the Family❤️ RIP Paul 🙏
Born on August 25, 1947, in Long Branch, New Jersey