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Lauren Cole Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Bristol Herald Courier.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
September 17, 2017
I miss you more everyday. You were my sunshine. Today, Sunday of Rhythm and Roots, is always my most painful day of the year, the day I lost you. Memories keep me going. You were my precious baby girl. Love you and miss you, Always, your Mom.
Hannah Buckles
April 3, 2017
Happy birthday my sweet friend from Robbie and me. I miss you every day. Today we would have celebrated the big 30. I know you walk with me and are close to me when the sun is shining and the birds are chirping. I love you sweet friend.
now: Margaret Elaine McGowan Baze
Elaine McGowan
December 26, 2016
April 3, 2016
My Precious Lauren would be 29 years old today. I can't believe how time has passed and so much has happened. You are with your Dad now. I miss you both so, so much. You two were my life. Going to the Blue Hole and the Fire Tower today with family and friends to remember and honor you, my precious baby girl. Love you forever. Your Mom.
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September 20, 2015
Our precious daughter, how we miss you. It certainly doesn't get any easier. We miss you more every passing day. You were always our ray of sunshine, the brightest star, our hero. May you always be in our hearts, on our minds, and in our memories. Your Mom and Dad
September 21, 2014
My precious Lauren left us 5 years ago, but she lives on in our minds and hearts forever. I miss you everyday my darling daughter. Lovin' Life 'n' Lovin' YOU, forever, Your Mom
April 5, 2014
My baby girl, you would be 27 this week. What and where would you be right now if you were still with us? Doing great things, I know. I think about you everyday and there will always be a huge void in my life. One day we will be together again. Love you my little bird. Love always, Your Mom.
Nancy Garrity
April 4, 2014
In memory of Lauren's 27th birthday (April 3rd) You are in our hearts and thoughts forever.
With love, Aunt Nancy
we miss you everyday
Nancy and Rudy Garrity
January 3, 2014
Dear Lauren, this is the 5th Christmas, we are missing you so much, You are always in our hearts and prayers. Your friends have been a great support to your Mother and Father. You keep those Angels in line up there.
December 28, 2013
This was our 5th Christmas without our Lauren. Still seems strange and a bit empty. She is always in our hearts though. We miss her and think of her everyday always. Mom
October 7, 2013
Ron and Carol,
Out of nowhere Lauren came to my mind unexpectedly tonight. The two of you played such a significant part in my upbringing, Matt was my very best friend whom I looked up to and lil sis Lauren was always game for whatever backyard adventure we could get ourselves in to. Too many memories to count but will never forget how unique and special Lauren as well as the entire Cole family truly is. The lasting impact and love that you all provide to so many friends, family members, and even total strangers is unparalleled. Miss you lil “bird.” Love forever, Drew Harrell
December 27, 2012
Another Christmas Season without our sweet, sweet Lauren. This is the 4th, 2009,2010,2011,and 2012. Christmas is so different. Still good, just different. Lauren will always be in all our hearts and minds forever. Lauren's Mom
December 25, 2012
We miss you Lauren, especially at Christmas. You are always in our hearts. With love, Aunt Nancy and Uncle Rudy
September 20, 2012
Carol and Ron, may god bless you during this difficult time. Hold on to your precious memories, they will last a lifetime. We miss you Lauren.
With love, Aunt Nancy and Uncle Rudy
April 8, 2012
This was Lauren's birthday week. She would have been 25 years old on Tuesday, April 3. This was extra hard on her Mom and Dad. We hiked Pine Mountain with Katelyn and Becca that day, caught in a thunder storm, made us super late, missed dinner with Kristie and Borce. But, Saturday, 3rd annual Blue Hole hike and trail clean-up, made up for it all. Great turnout and wonderful dinner party afterward. Lauren was truly honored and remembered. Love always, MOM
Nancy Garrity
April 3, 2012
This is Lauren's 25th birthday. Thinking
about her enriches our lives. She is sorely missed, and she will always be loved. With love, Aunt Nancy
January 5, 2012
Another holiday seasson (#3) without our precious girl. Although she wasn't physically present, she was in our hearts and on our minds. Many of her friends came by to see us and remember our beautiful Lauren. It does our hearts good to know how much her family and friends love her and miss her. She is always near and that is such a comfort. Mom and Dad
January 2, 2012
Lauren was missed by her family and friends throughout the holiday season. She is always in our hearts. Love endures. Aunt Nancy and Uncle Rudy
Nancy Garrity
September 22, 2011
Tuesday, the 20th of September, was the second anniversary of Lauren's passing. We, and the rest of Lauren's family and friends miss her everyday. Aunt Nancy and Uncle Rudy
September 21, 2011
This week-end on Sunday of Rhythm and Roots and Tuesday, Sept 20 marked the second anniversary of losing our precious Lauren. So many people came by to wish us well and spend some time with the Cole's. Our family took a walk on the VA Creeper Trail on Sunday afternoon. This was one of Lauren's favorite places. This has been the hardest two years of our lives. Today, we shared the "Lauren story" at an insurance/financial planners meeting. It was very hard to do, but we must do these things to forever honor our beautiful, exceptional daughter. Lauren's Mom and Dad. We miss you, Lauren!!!
September 13, 2011
The 28th Annual Schoolhouse Run in Abingdon was very successful raising money for the Lauren Elizabeth Cole Memorial Scholarship. We all had fun and thought of Lauren.
May 30, 2011
We were remembering Lauren on this beautiful Memorial Day. We miss her every day. Lauren, you will always be in our hearts. Aunt Nancy and Uncle Rudy
May 26, 2011
Saturday, May 21, Lauren's big brother, Matt, married the love of his life, Brandi. Lauren loved Brandi like a sister and would be so happy; I think she knows. One of the most joyous days of my life. Mom
May 16, 2011
Friday, May 13, 2011 was Class Night at Tennessee High School. The second annual Lauren Elizabeth Cole Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Blakeley Elizabeth Burleson, a truly outstanding young lady. She exhibited many of the qualities of our Lauren. Blakeley is an exceptional athlete and scholar and greatly involved in community service. She will be going to Tusculum College on an athletic/academic scholarship. We are so proud of her. She was most deserving of this award. The Cole's
April 4, 2011
Happy Birthday, Lauren. Yesterday was full of sunshine, warmth, love, and joy. Everything that you were... and brought into all of our lives. 38 people came to the Blue Hole to celebrate your life. Special t-shirts were worn for you and special rocks with you everywhere were placed in your honor. Everybody loves you and misses you terribly. Me, especiallly. Love you for eternity, Mom.
Nancy and Rudy Garrity
April 3, 2011
Today is Lauren's 24th birthday. It will be celebrated by her friends and family at the "Blue Hole" (a place Lauren loved), to be followed by a gathering of those who love her, at her parents home. Because of illness, Rudy and I will not be able to attend, but she will be in our thoughts and prayers throughout the day.
We love you,
Aunt Nancy and Uncle Rudy
March 27, 2011
We all lost the "Patriarch" of the Slagle clan last month - 2/17/11. He will always live within our souls and hearts. We will honor Bill Slagle always. You are now with God, Lauren, and the rest who have gone before you. We love you and miss you and will see you "down the road". Your Family, Carol, Nancy, Bill, Ron, Rudy, Matt, Brandi, Kristie, Borce.
Aunt Nancy
February 26, 2011
Last Saturday, Feb. 19th was Lauren's grandfather's funeral. "Pah Pah" as he was fondly called by his grandchildren. I'm sure Lauren and "Pah Pah" will be very happy to see each other again.
Cindy Cole
February 18, 2011
To Lauren's Family - For some reason a googled my daughter's name, Lauren Cole and I found your Lauren. These girls are together, my Lauren Elizabeth Cole age 19 left us Oct. 24, 2006. Lauren had Cystic Fibrosis and underwent a double lung transplant May 2005. The success of her transplant just did not last as long as we had hoped. I'm sure our girls are the best of friends. One day we all will be reunited. I am so thankful to have had such a wonderful daughter and I know she did make a difference in this world. I know your heart will never heal and hope your strength to carry on continues to grow.
Jo Ann Byington
December 30, 2010
Ron and Carol
We just wanted to say hi and let you know that we are thinking of you and your family.
Jo Ann and Randy
December 27, 2010
Our second Christmas without our Lauren. We love her and miss her so much. Words cannot truly express our grief and loss. You are in our hearts forever and ever "Baby Girl". Your spirit lives on!!!! Your family.
Edna Burnett
December 19, 2010
Lauren is like a shooting star, not here for long but her smile lit up the world while she was here.
November 18, 2010
November 6, 2010 was the 2nd annual Lauren Elizabeth Cole Memorial Golf Tournament - "The Quest for the Can"! The weather was not kind that day and we needed a miracle. Well, we got one and it wasn't the weather. It was in the hearts of all the people who came out to play and to help. In spite of the weather, 82 players (21 teams) came out on that cold and blustery morning. Everyone had a great time, lots of Fat Tire, hot pizza, and everyone went home with a door prize, looking forward to next year's tournament. It was a huge success and we are thankful to all those wonderful friends and family that made it happen. It was the second largest event at the Bristol Country club this year. We raised over $3,000+ for the scholarship fund. Thank you to all our sponsors and everyone who contributed with door prizes and everyone who came out to play, help, and support. We love you all.
November 10, 2010
Friday evening, October 8th, at the Billups Art Gallery Nashville, Julia Hale and Ferrol Thomas sponsored a benefit with music, beverages, and a silent auction with all of the proceeds going to the Lauren Elizabeth Cole Memorial Scholarship at ETSU. We had a great turnout, wonderful music with the Justin Kalk Orchestra. Most of the items were auctioned off. They raised over $2,000+. The Cole family is eternally grateful for these two sisters and all the other wonderful friends who helped make this a success. Matt and Brandi have some really fantastic friends in Nashville and Murfreesboro. We love them dearly.
Lauren enjoying nature
October 24, 2010
September 21, 2010
Yesterday was the first anniversary of Lauren's death. I was saddened that I was unable to share in honoring Lauren by being there. I will be with her mother to acknowledge the anniversary of her Memorial Service this weekend. We all miss Lauren's beautiful smile every day.
Aunt Nancy
September 20, 2010
Today, was the one-year anniversary of our Lauren's tragic and untimely death. We needed to make it a blessed, glorious, "Lauren" day. We got together with our "children" and went to Laurel Falls hiking and picnicking and had a beautiful, joyous day - better than we ever expected. We got through the seemingly hardest time yet to face. Thank you, our dear God, and thank you our angel, Lauren for comfort, strength, and courage.
Mom and Dad
August 21, 2010
This past Saturday, August 14th was the 27th annual 5K Schoolhouse Run in Abingdon, VA. All proceeds went toward the Lauren Elizabeth Cole Endowed Scholarship Fund at ETSU for an outstanding Parks and Recreation Management major. The event was very successful with 124 runners, many spectators and volunteers. This Fall 2010, Alex Cox, is the first recipient of the scholarship award. Our family is so joyful for this. Alex and Lauren were very good friends and fellow backpackers.
We thank our family, our friends, and our Lord for the wonderful things that are taking place to honor Lauren.
Ron and Carol
August 20, 2010
Dear Lauren, It's hard to believe that you have been gone eleven months today. We miss your beautiful smile, and think about you everyday.
Aunt Nancy and Uncle Rudy
Josie
August 6, 2010
Your light will always shine Ms. Lauren.
Kathy Waller
June 28, 2010
Ron and Carol,
I was trying to find an old friend and just googled "Carol Cole" unbeknownst to me I stumbled sadly on this guest book. I am so sorry to hear of Lauren's passing. Please know there are some old friends who wish you well. Would love to visit again if possible. email: [email protected]
My deepest sympathy to you Ron and Carol. Some ole' friends, Kathy and Mike Waller
Lauren's brother Matt skateboarding
May 21, 2010
Lauren taking in the beauty surrounding her.
May 21, 2010
May 20, 2010
Dear Lauren, It has been eight months since you left us. We love you, we miss you and you are in our thoughts every day. You will be with us forever. Not a day goes by that I don't look at your beautiful picture. With love, Aunt Nancy
May 19, 2010
This past Friday night, May 14, the very first annual Lauren Cole Memorial Scholarship was awarded to an all-around outstanding student, scholar, and athlete at Tennessee High School Senior Class night. This year's recipient couldn't have been more perfect and deserving for the award, Taylor Miller. Taylor exemplifies everything that Lauren stood for and believed in. Our family is so thankful and blessed to have this young lady accept the scholarship. Ron and Carol Cole
Lauren and Carol's friend Clarey
April 27, 2010
Lauren's brother Matt, and future sister in law Brandi
April 27, 2010
March 31, 2010
Lauren's,birthday is April 3rd. We wish you could be here with your family and friends to Honor your birtyday. Something tells me that your sprit will be. We miss you more with each day that passes. We Love You,and always will. You will forever be in our hearts. With love, Uncle Rudy and Aunt Nancy
Lauren with her Kitty
March 2, 2010
February 5, 2010
Today is the Tree Dedication Ceremony for Lauren, at Tennessee High School. She will be remembered always.
Lauren with her mom and a friend
February 2, 2010
Lauren and friend
February 2, 2010
Lauren's beautiful brown eyes
February 2, 2010
Lauren quinching her thirst after a long bike ride
February 2, 2010
Lauren's birthday party
January 3, 2010
Laurens brother and future sister and law
January 3, 2010
Nancy and Rudy Garrity
January 3, 2010
May these special holidays bring you comfort and wonderful memories, and know that Lauren is at peace.
December 24, 2009
What a wonderful life she had what a wonderful life you gave her.
Lauren on top pf a Bolder
December 23, 2009
Being Silly (Lauren and Friend)
December 23, 2009
Uncle Bill and Lauren at Graduation
December 23, 2009
Lauren and Caitlin
December 23, 2009
Lauren and Caitlin
December 23, 2009
Kristie and Lauren on family vacation
December 22, 2009
Family Picture
December 22, 2009
Lauren and Friends
December 22, 2009
Lauren, two thumbs up
December 22, 2009
Beautiful, Happy Lauren
December 22, 2009
Lauren with Fletcher
December 22, 2009
Lauren and her mom
December 22, 2009
Lauren placing the star on the Christmas tree
December 22, 2009
Borce and Lauren
December 22, 2009
Kristie and Lauren
December 22, 2009
December 22, 2009
Kristie and Lauren
December 22, 2009
Lauren's cat Milo
December 22, 2009
Amy Herndon
December 21, 2009
Ron, Carol, and Matt,
My family has been praying for you all especially at this time of year. We love you and our hearts ache for you but also rejoice for you for having such a lovely, talented, beautiful daughter. There was never a time that I saw Lauren that she did not have a sweet smile on her face. She loved life and you could tell. I am so proud of the many things she accomplished and all the people she touched while taking her life journey. There has not been a day go by that I do not pray for you. I pray that the Lord surround you with HIS love and peace that only HE can give to comfort you. I think this is a beautiful tribute to Lauren. Thank you for raising such a wonderful influence on our society. A true leader, goal setter, and most important a genuinely compassionate human being. If there is ever anything we can do, please do not hesitate to ask. If you need someone to talk to, please know we are here. We love you.
The Herndon's
Kristie, Lauren and Carol at Lauren's graduation
December 11, 2009
Lauren and friend
December 11, 2009
Lauren with Max
December 11, 2009
Lauren, Tiny and Caitlin
December 11, 2009
Matt, Caitlin and Lauren
December 11, 2009
Lauren with her Mom
December 11, 2009
Lauren and her cousin Kristie
December 11, 2009
December 11, 2009
Showcase
People
Lauren Cole Sometimes the youngest among us exemplifies the aspiration and commitment to personal growth and community citizenship that makes us proud of our traditions. Twenty two year old Lauren Cole was such a person, and her community currently celebrates her remarkable life and mourns her untimely death in a recent one car accident.
In high school, Lauren was a leader in academics, sports, and community service. In academics: received the “All Academic Award,” recipient of Teacher’s Choice Award, Editor-in-Chief of the School Newspaper. In sports: captain of the Girls’ Basketball Team, Tennessee High Lady Vikings all-time record holder, and recipient of the “Heart of the Team” award and the “Paul Cook” award for sportsmanship. In school and city community service: Beta Club Honor Society, Secretary of Anchor Club Community Service Organization, Senior Court, TV Broadcasting Club, and Business Professionals of America.
Continuing on to college and East Tennessee State University, Lauren chose an academic over athletic scholarship and continued to build her academic and community service legacy. In academics: Honor Student and Dean’s List, Kappa Delta Pi Education Honor Society, and an ETSU Student-Faculty Collaborative Research Grant. In community service: Certified Woodland Firefighter and Emergency First Aid, the Initiative for Clean Energy, Vice-President of Students in Free Enterprise at Northeast State, volunteer in the Boys and Girls Club and in the Tennessee Parks and Recreation program.
At the tree planting ceremony, a school official spoke and said, “I remember Lauren always with a smile. She was forever optimistic and loyal to her family and friends. She would be the student who wanted to help the slow, the weak, the uncared for, or the forgotten. She didn’t care what others thought, she didn’t care what was popular, Lauren did what was right and what wouldn’t hurt anyone else. She was forgiving and kind.”
Some have commented that “Lauren touched the lives of many people, young and old.” Lauren was a registered tissue and organ donor and in her passing has saved and/or improved the lives of 20-30 children and adults. Someone can now see, and others will live, because of Lauren’s gifts.
Fixing dinner while on vacation (mom,dad,&Lauren)
December 3, 2009
Lauren horsebackriding on vacation
December 3, 2009
Lauren biking with friend
December 3, 2009
Lauren on a bike trip with friend
December 3, 2009
Lauren meditating
November 30, 2009
Christmas 2008, with the grandparents
November 30, 2009
Christmas with Lauren 2008
November 30, 2009
Carol and Lauren, Christmas 2008
November 30, 2009
Lauren's dog Max
November 30, 2009
Lauren, Christmas at the grandparents
November 30, 2009
Lauren and friends
November 30, 2009
Christmas at Pah Pah's and Ma Berties
November 29, 2009
Beautiful Lauren
November 29, 2009
Lauren and Max
November 29, 2009
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