Irene Jewel Cole

On Thursday, May 31, 2018, Irene Jewel Norris Cole passed from her earthly home to be with her LORD and Savior, Jesus Christ. She was born on January 7, 1924 in Mineola, Texas to the late M.M. Norris and Ida Veasey Matthews Norris. Irene was one of ten children and was raised by her loving parents on their farm. On October 7, 1941, she married the love of her life, Billie Emil Cole. Billie served as pastor of several Baptist churches in Texas and Irene was the faithful pastor’s wife. After the death of Reverend Cole in 1977, Irene moved to Buna, Texas to live with their daughter, Billie Lou Cole Davis and grandson, Kirk Davis. After the death of her daughter in 2014, Irene continued to live independently. With much persistence and persuasion, she finally gave into moving to the Silsbee Convalescent Nursing Facility in Silsbee, Texas on August 27, 2015. A new life began for her as she met new friends and other residents. Not only did she love to play Bingo, she had many prizes to prove she was a pretty good player. She got to do things that she hadn’t done in a long time; going out to eat, watching movies and having popcorn, ice cream parties and attending church services. The one thing that was probably the highest on her list was to get her hair done every Tuesday. If the beautician wasn’t able to make it that day, her whole week was a disaster. And, don’t forget the makeup. It had to be the exact same brand and color each time and yes, she knew the right one. She just could not understand the privacy laws that were enforced at the facility. Who had to go to the hospital, why, where did they go and when were they coming home? It didn’t matter that she was given the same answer each time. She was very persistent. She was instructed to go and stand in front of each door and pray for them while they were away. She never forgot a prayer request and was a fervent prayer warrior. She loved the LORD and was ready to see all her loved ones waiting for her there in Heaven. It is with much love and many thanks to the staff (no family) at Silsbee Convalescent Nursing Facility for the wonderful care and attention shown to my precious Mts. Cole. Also, thank you Kindred Hospice for your kindness and care, if only for a short time. I could never call Mrs. Cole, Irene because I thought at her age she deserved the utmost respect. It is with a heavy, sad heart that I write this, but yet it’s joy unspeakable. I know exactly where she is and her hair is looking beautiful. I’ll be seeing you soon and I love you with all my heart. Elaine

Irene Jewel Cole

January 7, 1924 - May 31, 2018