Emilia Cole

1941 - 2025

Emilia (Emily) Cole
11/09/1941 - 08/03/2025
Transformative Educator and Beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother and Friend

Emily Cole, a pioneering force in Houston education and a cherished member of the community, passed away peacefully on August 3rd at her home in the Heights at the age of 83. She is survived by her husband Kenneth, sons David and Burton, daughters-in-law Cynthia and Dawn, grandchildren Holt, Caroline, and Elizabeth, brother-in-law Myron, sister-in-law Sandi, as well as numerous siblings, cousins, nephews and nieces. Known for her unwavering commitment to students, faculty and staff and her transformative leadership, Emily leaves behind a legacy that reshaped lives and uplifted entire school communities.

Emily received a BA Ed and a MA Ed from Texas State University and an honorary PhD from Houston Community College. Emily began her career as a dedicated elementary school teacher and later became a hard-driving elementary principal before taking the helm at Houston ISD Jefferson Davis High School (now Northside High School) in 1988. At a time when "Davis" faced high dropout rates, teen pregnancies, and low college enrollment, Emily brought compassion, vision, and discipline. Her leadership turned the school into a beacon of hope for underserved students, emphasizing personal growth, academic achievement, and community engagement.

Inspired by the film Stand and Deliver, Emily famously invited actor Edward James Olmos to speak to her students, igniting a culture of aspiration and belief. Her tenure at "Davis" lasted 13 years, during which she became a national figure in education reform, advocating for equity and opportunity for low-income students. While at "Davis" she cofounded Project GRAD, which afforded college scholarships to academically qualified students who otherwise might not have attended college for financial reasons. Ford Foundation ultimately took the Project GRAD concept nationwide. Her impact on Houston ISD and the broader educational landscape will be felt for generations.

Even after retirement from public education, Emily remained a guiding presence for former students and colleagues, who continued to seek her wisdom and warmth. Her home became a gathering place for stories, laughter, and gratitude. During her post-retirement period she consulted with both state and national organizations and maintained an active participation in both Rotary and Church.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held in Houston, with details to be announced by the family via email and posting to the Heights Funeral Home web site. The family suggests in lieu of flowers that a donation to Project GRAD or favorite charity be made in Emily's name.