Linda Cole

Linda Cole, lovingly known as "Nina" to her grandchildren, passed away peacefully on December 28, 2025, at the age of 77, surrounded by the love of her family, following a brief battle with cancer.

Born on July 10, 1948, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Linda lived a life defined by love, unwavering devotion to family, lifelong friendships, and a quiet strength that carried her gracefully through every season of life.

Linda was a proud and adoring grandmother to her cherished grandchildren, Sophie Romines and River Baxter. Being "Nina" was one of her greatest joys, and time spent with her family filled her heart completely.

Many of Linda's lifelong friendships were formed over more than 40 years of boating on Norris Lake. Sunsets, fall cruises, and cove parties created bonds that lasted a lifetime. In the 1990s, Linda and her husband Jerry lived on a custom-built houseboat on Norris Lake for five years—a chapter that reflected their shared love of water, adventure, and community.

After the passing of her husband twenty years ago, Linda embraced travel and adventure with enthusiasm. She explored much of the western United States, with Yellowstone, Jackson Hole, Colorado, and Hawaii among her favorite destinations. Above all, Navarre Beach, Florida, was her happy place. If the word "trip" was mentioned, she could have a bag packed in under ten minutes. Her adventurous spirit reflected her love of discovering new places—and new people.

Linda will be remembered for her devotion, resilience, love of family, her beautiful smile, and the way she made others feel seen, safe, and deeply loved.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Jerry Cole; her parents, Allen and Mary Snow; and her brothers, Ronnie Snow, Jerry Snow, and Donald Snow.

She is survived by her daughters, Sonya Cole (Scott Romines) and Kelly Baxter (Bo Baxter); her beloved grandchildren, Sophie Romines and River Baxter; her extended family; her special friend Tim Kelly; and many lifelong friends who cherished her deeply.

A celebration of Linda's life will be held on January 10 at 2:00 PM EST at Sevier Heights Baptist Church - North Campus, 3446 Lake Crossing, Knoxville, TN 37920. Receiving of friends from 2:00-2:45 PM and service following receiving of friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Linda's generous spirit by registering to become an organ donor at donatelifetn.org.