Deacon Chester Lee Cole

Deacon Chester Lee Cole, affectionately known as "Chest," was born on April 24, 1930, in Kosciusko, Mississippi, to the late Madison and Rosie Lee Fondren Cole. He was the fifth child of twelve children.

At an early age, he accepted Christ in his life and joined New Garden Missionary Baptist Church, where he served As a Deacon. Later in life, he moved to Itta Bena, MS, where he joined the New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend F.D. Matthew. He used his talents to serve the Lord as a Deacon, Assistant Superintendent of the Sunday School, Men's Bible class teacher, and a group captain in the Baptist Training Union. On his return home in 1972, Chester reinstated his membership at New Garden Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend W. M. Stevens. Later, he united with the Travelers Rest Missionary Baptist Church, where he was an active and faithful member until his health failed. He served in various leadership capacities, including Chairman of the Deacon Board, Assistant Sunday School Superintendent, and member of the Adult Senior Choir and the Travelers Rest Male Chorus Group. He also served as Dean of the Central Mississippi College Seminary for many years. He was a dedicated lifetime member of the VFW Post 551.

Chester received his education in the Attala County School System, and later he continued his education at Tipton Street High School (known as the Bobcat), earning his high school diploma. Following his high school graduation, he continued his education at Mississippi Valley State University, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education, and a Master's Degree from Mississippi State University in Starkville, Mississippi. Deacon Cole saw a need for advancement; he continued his studies at Mississippi College in Clinton, Mississippi.

Chester was drafted into the United States Army where he served two in Alaska, Anchorage, and Fairbanks. He also served 30 years in the United States Reserve in Fort Benning, Georgia; Camp Shelby, Mississippi; Fort Bragg, Kentucky; Fort Stewart, GA; in Fort Hood, Texas.

Chester devoted 40 years to his teaching career as an elementary teacher. He inspired students for two years at Union Elementary and 38 years at Lexington Elementary School under the leadership of the late Mr. Samuel Friar and Mr. Robert Lewis. He dedicated his life's work to helping educate the boys and girl in the Holmes County school system. During his forty years of service, Deacon Cole did an outstanding job as an assistant principal and classroom teacher. He prepared the boys and girls for the challenges in the educational arena of tomorrow. He was also active in various school activities as a basketball coach and a Boy Scout leader.

Chester was united in holy matrimony to Icey Perkins (who preceded him in death). In in his spare time, Chester enjoyed watching television, talking on the Telephone, solving word search puzzles, attending various church programs, and reading the Bible. Chester was a freehearted person. He will be deeply and greatly missed by his family and dear friends. He transitioned from this life on February 6, 2026, at his residence surrounded by his family and friends.

Chester was preceded in death by his wife, Icey Cole; his parents, Madison and Rosie Cole; (5) Sisters: Victoria McKinley, Rosie M. Fullilove, Lula B. Riley, Suzanne Cole, and Mattie Boatman. (5) Brothers: Johnny Lee, J.T. Madison, Jr., Calloway Cole, and Clarence Harmon, Sr.

Chester leaves to cherish his memories, a loving and devoted brother, John Henry Cole; one sister-in-law, Minnie P. Cole and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

PLACE OF SERVICE: Traveler Rest M.B. Church, Kosciusko, MS

DATE OF SERVICE: Monday 2/16/2026 at 11:00 a.m.

INTERMENT: Mt. Zion Cemetery, Sallis, MS

VIEWING: Saturday 02/14/2026 at 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.