Timothy L. Cole

June 21, 1947-April 17, 2019

Kinston - Timothy “Tim” Lee Cole, 71, conquered life on April 17, 2019. Tim was born June 21, 1947 in Lenoir County. His parents, Horace Cole and Edna Thompson Alphin, preceded him in death. Proud to serve his country in the United States Army, Tim received the Bronze Star for his valiant service during the Vietnam War.

Quite the workaholic, Tim was known to pound the pavement in his earlier years, especially when at the dealership. With an incredible work ethic and a passion for automobiles, Tim found the perfect career for himself in auto sales. For almost 30 years Tim was a vital part of the Roy Jones Automotive Group in Kinston where he worked from salesman to General Manager. Old cars and sports cars always grabbed his attention, but he liked none better than a classic Chevelle.

Once retired, Tim became Ellene’s partner in raising Havanese and English Bulldogs. They named their kennel, Colhaven. They raised top quality dogs that competed in AKC shows. Their puppies have been adopted all over the United States. Few things made Tim happier than a trip to the beach with the dogs. He would walk his four-legged friend to the end of the pier where the two could sit for hours, breathing in the salt air while talking to the Lord.

Golf was the perfect escape from the daily rigors of life for Tim. The quote that follows from Arnold Palmer sums up Tim’s love for golf: “The game has such a hold on golfers because they compete not only against an opponent, but also against the course, against par, and most surely- against themselves.” Tim made many great friendships on the golf course.

One thing Tim was not going to do as a hobby or otherwise was cook. Tim made sure Ellene knew that he had spent enough time cooking in the Army and he surely wouldn’t be doing any at home. If you asked Tim where he wanted to eat, he always responded with Bojangle’s, Smithfield Chicken & Barbecue, or any restaurant with Eastern Carolina barbecue.

Tim was honest to a fault, mild-mannered, and lived life according to the golden rule. He had a keen, but dry, sense of humor that endeared others to him. With an infectious smile that would light up a room, his warm and gentle spirit welcomed others into his company. He would quickly let you know he valued the simple life and he didn’t need a whole lot-just a t-shirt, a pair of shorts, and flip-flops.

Of all of his pleasures and joys, there was nothing for Tim like his family. He married his sweetheart and the love of his life over 37 years ago. From there they watched as their family grew to include not only their children but their precious grandchildren as well. As much as he loved his family, they loved him even more. Tim was the family favorite. His smile, the sound of his laughter, and the way he made each one feel could never be replaced.

A service to remember and celebrate Tim’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, April 22, 2019, at Rouse Funeral Home. A time of visitation and fellowship will follow the memorial service. A private family inurnment will be held at Eastern Carolina State Veteran’s Cemetery.

Tim is survived by his beloved wife, Ellene; six children, Christie Mozingo (Jack), Heather York, Jeremy Pearson (Kelly), April Anderson, Colton Cole, and Taylor Cole; four grandchildren, Logan, Jack, Gavin, and Resse; step-father, Gene F. Alphin; siblings, Pat Mullinix (Bill) and Dean Potter. In addition to his parents, Tim was preceded in death by a brother, Wayne Cole.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Memorials in Tim’s memory may be made to the American Heart Association, 3130 RDU Center Drive-Suite 100, Morrisville, NC 27560 or the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 15829, Arlington, VA 22215 Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home.