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Maria Cole Obituary
A representative of the family confirmed that she died Tuesday at a Boca Raton hospice, surrounded by her family.
Before and after marrying the famed singer and piano player, Maria Cole had her own long singing career, performing with greats such as Count Basie and Duke Ellington.
Born in Boston in 1922, she lived as a child in North Carolina after her mother died, according to a statement from the family. She later moved to New York to pursue a music career
According to her family, Ellington heard recordings of Maria Cole singing and hired her as a vocalist with his orchestra. She stayed with him until 1946 when she began soloing at the city's Club Zanzibar as an opening act for the Mills Brothers. There she met Nat "King" Cole.
The two were m arried in 1948 by then-U.S. Rep. Adam Clayton Powell Jr. at Harlem's Abyssinian Baptist Church.
Maria Cole traveled and performed with her husband throughout the '50s. After her husband died from cancer in 1965, Maria Cole created the Cole Cancer Foundation.
Her children, Natalie, Timolin and Casey Cole, said in a joint statement, "Our mom was in a class all by herself. She epitomized, class, elegance, and truly defined what it is to be a real lady. ... She died how she lived - with great strength, courage and dignity, surrounded by her loving family."
At the time of her death Maria Cole lived in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. Private services will be held in Glendale, Calif.
Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
272 Entries
Karena Moore
November 9, 2019
Beautiful mother and wife
Dora Wilcox
January 6, 2016
To: The Cole Family
May God Keep you in your time of Sorrow.
How you can show support
Dwayne Bickham,Sr.
January 1, 2016
In God's care, rest in peace.
Margaret Jenkins
January 16, 2014
May Maria Cole rest in eternal peace. She was a positive influence on Nat King Cole in many ways.
phillip theiss
December 22, 2013
Sorry haven't posted this before now .I have meet your mother a couple of times ive done tree work for her at her house really really was a very nice to me and my guys who worked there we we're saddened to here of your loss may god bless you and your family
Irene Dec
April 9, 2013
Dear Natalie and Family,
I am sorry to hear about the passing of your mother, Maria.
I only knew of your Mother, through a friend of hers, Martha Lou Gale (Harp). I lived across the street from her. She often spoke of both of your parents, Nat and Maria. On Christmas mornings, I brought over a Christmas CD of your father's, and we would listen to it. She spoke of the special times with your parents.
May God Bless you and your family. Warm thoughts, Irene
Mr &Mrs Mitchell Koyer
December 27, 2012
Dear Natalie & Sisters, Sorry to hear of your mom passing. She had so much class. Your father seemed to be so proud of her on his arm. Your Dad was my favorite singer in the fifties. I play his records often especially during the holidays !!! Hope you can cherish the good memories always !!!
Mia Johnson
December 11, 2012
Dear Miss Natalie I'm sorry to hear about your Mom's passing. Much love and peace. Merry Christmas. She is in God's hands.
Monica H.
October 19, 2012
The desirable thing in earthling man is his loving-kindness;... Proverbs 19:22
True beauty comes from within and in the Cole family you can see that beauty reflected in the smile of Maria Hawkins Cole. I love the version of “When I fall in Love” Natalie duets with her father…but now with Maria's picture in mind the song's lyrics truly resonates for me. I'm truly sorry for your loss, Cole Family.
Margaret Jenkins
September 17, 2012
Mrs. Maria Cole, you epitomized class and courage in the face of challenges and good times. May you rest in eternal peace.
Norma Miller
September 17, 2012
I cherished the moment that I met Mrs Cole and her beautiful, caring daughters.
To learn of her death was so sad a moment; to thank God for lending us such a beautiful,classy, resilient, kind human being was the least I could do.
May your soul RIP!
To Timolin,Natalie and Casey. "
Tears aren't welcome beyond the gates of glory;
For the heart will never break anymore."
Love you all! God bless you always.
August 30, 2012
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
patty kendall
August 16, 2012
You will be missed dearly Mrs cole rest in peace i will always love u all
Mary Alberghetti
August 4, 2012
I was sorry to hear of Mrs. Coles passing.
I went to school with daughter Carole and remember Mr. and
Mrs Cole at school events.
My condolences to the family on your loss of a very special
lady.
Dorothy Crisp
August 2, 2012
To The Cole Family: May your hearts be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. God bless and be with you.
Betty Ann Cann-Townsell
July 31, 2012
Our deapest condolences go out to the family of Maria Cole. A few of us missed the opportunity to connect with Maria when she visited Bermuda many years ago. However she was always remembered by the family , descendants of the Alpheus Saunders here in Berrmuda. God Bless !
M. TERRY
July 27, 2012
To the COLE FAMILY.I am so sorry to read of your dear mother's passing. MRS COLE showed what beauty and grace was all about. Be strong in the lord.He will bring you all thur this sad time.fYour mother and father will always be with all of you. RIP DEAR LADY.
wilson cain
July 25, 2012
She showed all Americans what grace looked like. May the angels her you to her rest.
alice
July 24, 2012
To the Cole family I am so sorry for your loss. May you receive an outpouring of love and support during this most difficult time. Please remember the promise at John 6:40 that says we will see our dear loved ones again.
Tamara Roper
July 23, 2012
Your mother exhibited grace and glamour it is a loss for us all. We ask that God's Grace and Mercy supports you through your time of sorrow. May you recall the wonderful times your family shared with your mom and dad which brought you joy.
God is forever by your side he will never leave or forsake yoo.
Sudie & Rod Cook
July 21, 2012
Timolin, Casey & Natatli - I was very saddened by the news of your mother's passing. Since Martha Lou's death in 2008, she became very dear to me as well as my husband Rod. We were able to visit with her several times during the past few years, and I also had visited with her when Martha Lou and I travelled. We will never forget her or those memorable times. Maria was such a beautiful and loving person. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your families.
May God bless each of you.
Sudie, niece of Martha Lou Gale (Oakwood, TX)
Sudie Cool (niece of Martha Lou Gale
Marguerite Fields
July 20, 2012
To the Cole family -we extend our sympathies upon hearing about the passing of Maria. May you be comforted by the cherished memories that you share.
During the mid eighties, My family members were exceedingly happy that she visited us in Bermuda with a promise to return. It is heartwarming to know that she lived an enriched life and was such an inspiration to many.
We pray that her legacy will live on. In accordance with the prayer of Saint Francis: Grant that we may not so much seek to be consoled,as to console;to be understood,as to understand;to be loved,as to love.For it is in the giving that we receive.
comfort your hearts and strengthen them in every good work and word. 2 Thessalonians 2:17 (on behalf of the Bermuda family of the late Duncan Saunders)
July 20, 2012
Mommy tells me you were in a class all by yourself,
Being a Woman of Elegance was something you just couldn't help.
I can't wait to see you so you can tell me all about your time here on earth,
And I will get the chance to tell you all about when Mommy gave birth.
God has made me over,
I have been changed and saved and so were you.
God restored your soul,
He made you over again,
To live in a place, where neither time nor space transcends.
We have forever to catch up on all the things we missed about each other,
You were always in our prayers,
my dear Great-Grandmother.
To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord,
Now you'll reign in Heaven but you'll never be bored.
Farewell for now…I'll see you soon…And maybe just maybe, you'll sing me a tune.
It's hurts to say Goodbye to everyone we left behind…but we won't be forgotten…We'll be UNFORGETTABLE this time.
cheyene mitchell
July 20, 2012
our prayers and love go out to the family. may god give you peace in your time of need. god bless you. the coles and mitchell and hammett family. new haven ct
Ardera Brown
July 19, 2012
Natalie our hearts and prayers are with you and your family in this time of sorrow
Pashion Williams
July 19, 2012
Natalie, Timolyn and Casey, I had a chance to meet your mother many years ago when she was passing through Atlanta, GA and her chaufeuer stopped for gas. I will never forget her smile. She was so beautiful; I waved and she smiled and waved back. A loss especially a parents is never an easy task! I'm hopeful you will find comfort in knowing that she is not alone that your father, the late Nat King Cole, "the great love of her and your lives" is there with open arms to meet her. May you find comfort in Psalms 121:1 "I will lift mine unto the hills from whence cometh my help; my help cometh from the Lord!"
GOD BLESS EACH OF YOU!!
Liz
July 18, 2012
Mrs. Cole in comportment and manner, transcended the indignities of a bygone era in our country. I believed her husband depended on her strength which allowed his incredible artistry to reach and touch people the world over. What an incredible and remarkable woman she was. God bless the Cole family. My cousin, Sheridan Rosborough was the Cole's insurance agent and he admired them very much.
Liz-San Francisco
Olivia Barker
July 17, 2012
To Natalie Cole and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. May God comfort you and give you His peace that surpasses all understanding.
The greeter at the bottom stairs at Victory Church.
Dale Manolis
July 17, 2012
I met Maria while I was a Concierge at The Lodge & Club in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. We shared the same hairstylist and would see each other, throughout the years, when our appointment times were similar.
I was always in awe of her character, style and compassion. Knowing her, even briefly, left a permanent, loving memory that I will always cherish.
Dinah Collins
July 17, 2012
Beautiful Maria
Thank you for inspiring many to song a joyful song. May your extended Family Friends and Fans find comfort in remembering You <3
July 17, 2012
Rest Maria where there is no more pain and sorrow.
July 17, 2012
God placed you on my heart to pray, one morning I woke up in May. I'm grateful that I did obey and that he used a vessel like me to Pray. May your soul be at peace and may your family that is left behind realize that we will all be gone in time. Rest Maria. Rest.
Kia Graves
July 16, 2012
Sorry for the lost of your loved 1 & may the family & friends find peace during this time of grievance
Caren and Jim Cooper
July 16, 2012
We will miss Maria as many will. Only knew her in the past ten years but always enjoyed spending time with her. She is quite a lady.
Caren and Jim Cooper
July 16, 2012
We will miss Maria as many will. Only knew her in the last ten years, but always enjoyed being with her. She is quite a lady.
Monique Sawyers, Just a fan
July 16, 2012
To the Family of Mrs.Cole,may God bless you all as your mother goes through her transtion,God has her hand now she is in good hands.
Sherri
July 16, 2012
"May time do its quiet work, bringing comfort to your heart".
Irene Garcia
July 16, 2012
My condolences to Natalie and her family,blessing you're way,maria am sure nat is singing to unforgettable and I
ur in Pleasantville!! May the good lord be with u all..
Mary Jeffers
July 16, 2012
May God strengthen the remaining Cole family at this difficult time in their lives.
Cynthia Stewart
July 16, 2012
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Faye Bailey
July 15, 2012
Ms Cole left me with valuable life lessons while doing her hair and for that I am grateful.
July 15, 2012
MAY YOUR FAITH AND THE GRACE OF GOD COMFORT YOU DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME.
CATHY CROMER (COLUMBIA, SC)
MARYE JOHNSON
July 15, 2012
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Cheryl Edwards-Williamson
July 15, 2012
My condolences to the Cole Family.
Love
Jeannie Perry
July 15, 2012
My sincere sympathy to the Cole family.
L.J. Sanchez
July 15, 2012
My Condolences & Sypathies go out to:Natalie,Tomolin & Casey Cole.No words can really help @ a time like this.But sooo very sorry for your Loss.God Bless All.From Someone That Cares.L.J.Sanchez
L.J. Sanchez
July 15, 2012
My Condolences & Sypathies go out to:Natalie,Tomolin & Casey Cole.No words can really help @ a time like this.But sooo very sorry for your Loss.God Bless All.From Someone That Cares.L.J.Sanchez
paula converse
July 15, 2012
rip Maria,,,prayers to your friends and family in time,,you will feel much better...just time and the Lord,,,God Bless
Bobbie Watson
July 15, 2012
My condolences goes out to Natalie and her family. May your hearts be strong and always remember that God has her in His arms and that He loved her the most.
melissa telles
July 15, 2012
My prayers are with your family
July 15, 2012
My sincere prayers and sympathy goes out to the Cole family. I have always loved the family and their music. God bless you guys as you mourn the loss of your Mother. Tina Williams, Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
July 15, 2012
I remember a story about your mother which appeared in a Chicken Soup for Your Soul book where your mother told a story about having to get to CA when your Dad was about to die. Everything I have heard or read about your mother has been inspring and I know she had great faith. God Bless all three of you as to face life. God is always with you. Hazel Andros
Jennifer Brown-Sawyer
July 15, 2012
Remembering your great love story today and always.
Jerry Stewart
July 15, 2012
My deepest sympathies goes out to the Cole family. Your voice will live on for ever thank you for the joy you have given all of us
July 15, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Kristin White-Bonilla
July 15, 2012
A very sad day! Your mother was a beautiful and strong woman, who said goodbye to your father way too soon! Nat, I wish I could hear you welcome your bride home! Simply beautiful!
Richard Schuyler
July 15, 2012
I remember Mrs. Cole on KHJ's 'Tempo' live show in the 60's when I was a teenager. She showed such class during those sometimes wild shows n that turbulent era. We all have a Birthdate and a Deathdate with a dash in between them. It's what you do with your dash that counts. Both her and Nat hit em out of the park.
SD
July 15, 2012
My heart and deepest sympathies goes out to the Cole family. She was the wife of a great and famed singer to us, but we understand that she was also a mother, grandmother and close friend to many. Mothers are so special. Your heavenly father will provide what ever is needed at this time. Wether it be hope, strength or peace because "...he cares for you.
Gail Koppelman
July 15, 2012
RIP The Koppelman's will miss you
Anthony L. Hughes
July 15, 2012
To Nataile Cole and Family.
Your Mother(Maria Hawkins Cole) is now back with your Father(Nat King Cole)in the Heavens above Together Harmonizing
Beautiful Music.
CHARLES BOSTIC
July 15, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Mary Parker
July 15, 2012
Another angel has gone to heaven.
Patricia Lewis
July 14, 2012
My condolences goes out to the Cole family!
Patricia Lewis
July 14, 2012
My condolences goes out to the Cole family I am sorry for yall lost!
Patricia Lewis
July 14, 2012
R.I.P. MRS MARIA My condolences goes out to the Cole family I am sorry for yall lost!
Joshua & Lois Ingram
July 14, 2012
May GOD continue to bless and keep you all in HIS loving care. She will be missed.
Hannah Ross
July 14, 2012
May God keep ur famiy strong in your time of need.Be Blessed.
Mable McDonald
July 14, 2012
May God's grace, comfort and peace be with you all in your time of grief.
AEM
July 14, 2012
Words fall short of expressing my sorrow for your loss. Please look to God for help during this very hurtful time. He definitely cares for you.
July 14, 2012
Maria-you and Nat were so loved by my dad Ron Stein.I myself have fond memories of the Cole family....He always told me what a positive impact you had on his life....We were all so upset to hear from Casey yesterday that you had passed away... We will miss you.....all my love Dana Stein
Corletta Hardy
July 14, 2012
May the grace of the almighty God give you all comfort and peace.Sweeping due for a night but joy comes in the morning.
Great Admirer of the Coles.
Ronald Ellis
July 14, 2012
May the Peace of God rest, rule and abide with the Family.
Don Shepherd
July 14, 2012
I'm sure your father has welcomed her home. All my best.....
S Moses
July 14, 2012
May the Lord comfort the Cole family at this time.
S Moses
July 14, 2012
Your beauty and spirit will forever shine. Thank you for sharing Nat and Natalie with us. Rest in Paradise.
ELizabeth Tharp
July 14, 2012
MAY GOD BLESS U WITH MUCH MORE . Ur songs was breathtakin . U r a very beautiful woman . U inspire everyone around u . I have a grand daughter natalie. U will 4 ever b n our prayers. Lift ur head hi smile and sing the best song ever known my deepest sympathy . GOD BLESS U AND UR FAMILY
Bonnie Stevenson
July 14, 2012
I thank God for the Cole family and the joy shared through songs and all the special family talent. May his Holy Spirit comfort the family in your loss.
Kathi Vaughn-Malpress
July 14, 2012
To The Family of Mrs. Maria H. Cole:
Extending condolences and praying for comfort and strength for all of you during this difficult time. Mrs. Cole was an Icon; yet an approachable, realistic “CLASSY LADY” with an unconditional love for people, and even a deeper unselfish love for her family - her grandchildren were her delight! Natalie, you are so richly blessed to have such Mother's love to always be with you – she loved you, DEARLY. May each of you find consolation in the spirit of her LOVE.
Betty Hiemstra
July 14, 2012
my heartfilled condolences go out to the Cole family.
Janice Lord
July 14, 2012
May God Bless your loving spirit as well as your family.
Butler
July 14, 2012
To the Cole family with deepest sympathy may you find comfort in the GOD of all comfort
July 14, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
July 14, 2012
Rest In Peace...you were a beautiful...classy, and , elegant lady...
V.Coates Columbus Oh
July 14, 2012
Natalie cole,I know you may not remember me but in Little Rock , Ark we met your father was a live then. he was stayining at Hotel Carmine, owned by my aunt mary. I truly sympathize with the lost of your mother. I hope your better healthwise. your in my prayers. Nevada Solano, NYC @ [email protected]
Olivia Lane
July 14, 2012
What a wonderful like. May God bless and comfort your family.
JACQUELINE WEAVER
July 14, 2012
to the cole family. my condolences to the family of Maria Hawkins Cole.
Bernadette Ventura-Warfel
July 14, 2012
What a lady! Wish I had met her. Sorrow now but surely a celebration of her life as she goes home.
Ken M
July 14, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
TERESA COLE
July 14, 2012
R.I.P. MRS. COLE
Laverne Brown
July 14, 2012
Sorry for your loss,my prayers are with you.
TERESA COLE
July 14, 2012
R.I.P. MRS. COLE
Cora Jeffery
July 14, 2012
To Natalie & Family sorry for your loss.May God Bless you.
steve jenkins.sr
July 14, 2012
very sorry for your loss.my GOD you with the peace that can come from him. pastor steve jenkins.sr and family be blessed
Paula HEFLIN
July 13, 2012
TO THE COLE FAMILY. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.
Cheryl Polk
July 13, 2012
May God comfort you. You are in my prayers.
Neal Plotnick
July 13, 2012
Very sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you all.
July 13, 2012
To the the family of Maria Hawkins Cole - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow, I know that she will be missed by many.
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