Vernon Ray Cole

Vernon Ray Cole passed away peacefully at his home in Hartford on April 14, 2025, at the age of 97. Born on February 9, 1928, in Ohio County to Raymond and Mattie (Nickell) Cole, Vernon lived a full and rich life.

Vernon was a member of Clear Run Baptist Church and also a proud 75-year member of the Hartford Masonic Lodge. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life—tending to his immaculate lawn, nurturing his garden, and watching NASCAR. In his younger years, he delighted in the great outdoors, spending hours hunting and fishing.

Vernon’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of his family. He is survived by his two loving daughters, Deborah Smith of Mt. Carmel, IL, and Sheila Fields of Hartford. He was the proud grandfather of four: Jim Smith of Chicago, IL; Mike Smith of Evansville, IN; Brad Smith (Molly) of Nashville, TN; and Ryan Fields (Talisa) of Owensboro, KY. Vernon was also a great-grandfather to Charlotte and Emily Smith of Nashville, TN, and Nolan, Anderson, and Juniper Fields of Owensboro, KY. He will be greatly missed by his sister, Helen Keith of Whiting, IN, and many nieces and nephews.

He is now reunited with his beloved wife of 69 years, Reba (Fieldon) Cole, as well as his three brothers—Lenville, Alton, and Kenneth Cole—and three sisters—Eranell Cole, Joyce Funk, and Mary Jazyk. He was also preceded in death by his son-in-law, Mickey Smith.

In honor of Vernon’s life, a graveside service will be held on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Clear Run Baptist Church Cemetery in Hartford.

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