Gene Douglas Cole, 79, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at Carteret Health Care. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Thompson Cole, Sr. and Vila Johnson Cole; his sister, Beverly Parvin; and his brother, Edward Thompson (Tommy) Cole, Jr.

Gene worked hard and played just as hard. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War, stationed in Ubon, Thailand, served as Onslow County’s Parks and Recreation director, and championed several successful businesses. He gave generously to his community and was willing to help anyone. On the golf course or on the boat, Gene was among his closest friends, who always took care of one another. He was an adventurer at heart, whether scuba diving, back-country skiing, or jumping out of planes. Above all, he loved his family deeply.

On Monday, November 2, 2026, visitation will be held at Kellum Baptist Church at 10:00 a.m. The service will begin at 10:45 a.m., with Reverend Jason Williford officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at noon at Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery.

Survivors include his wife of 34 years; Candace Cole of the home, his son; Logan Cole (fiancée: Paola) and his children; Ben, Finley and Mavis of Gainesville, FL, and their mother, Cali; his daughter; Scarlett Jones (husband: Tanner) of Huntersville, NC and their child Reid. Brothers; Dennis Cole of Fort Worth, TX and Jerry Lynn Cole (Susan) of Jacksonville, NC. Numerous nieces, nephews and many, many dear friends. In lieu of flowers the family is encouraging donations to be made to either the Tunnels to Towers Foundation or the Ed & Vila Cole Christian Education Scholarship Fund via the New River Baptist Association.