Mr. Peter J. Coles
1941 - 2019
Mr. Peter J. Coles
1941 - 2019
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1941
DIED
2019
Peter Coles Obituary
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Renà Sledge
August 7, 2025
Continue to RIP Director Peter Coles! The things you taught us are still at work. Derrick Harvey, one of your Junior Crime Prevention Club graduates is now The Police Chief of Milton, Delaware! May the family of Peter Coles always be proud of good things he did for so many. May God´s Blessings be upon you all.
The Family of Sledge, Belton, Harvey and Savage!
Renà Sledge
August 7, 2024
Director Coles, I just know you would have been so very proud that one of your Junior Crime Prevention Club members is now Chief of Police, Milton, DE.
Chief Derrick Harvey
We are still using the tools you left us with! Thanks for always wanting everyone to do better and be better! I want Peter Coles´ family to know that he was the best Federal Protective Service, Region 3 Director ever!
Renà Sledge, Philadelphia, PA
Renà
April 10, 2023
May you continue your RIP and Happy Birthday Peter J. Coles from your friends in Philly; Rená, Manny & Carolann
Margot Diaz (formerly Wasser-Wheeler)
June 15, 2020
Missed him by a year. I've thought of Mr. Coles frequently over the years. He helped shape who I am as an adult by always being there to talk whenever I needed him during my Herndon High years. I actually loved that man. He was such a good person and he loved us right back. I'll always regret not finding him sooner than now.
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Donald Davis
November 4, 2019
As is the case with most teen aged males, I was headed down the path that ultimately leads to self destruction. Were it not for the wisdom, patience and sheer will of my Uncle Peter, I dare say I would not be here this very day. RESPECT and HONOR.
Joan Bender
October 17, 2019
In the 1980's I worked with the U.S. General Services Administration in Washington DC and Peter was with the Federal Protective Service there. We co-developed a course "Violence In the Workplace" and at times co-taught it to other federal agencies. Peter was bright, honest and hard working with a wonderful way of reaching people and I adored him. I had been looking for a way to contact him and was unable until we attended my husband, Richard Boyden's class reunion in Springfield, MA this week and we found a publication listing the people from there who have passed away and saw his name. I am so sorry to his wife and family and extend my deepest sympathy. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I still use one of his stories if I do some training here in Florida and every time I do I can hear him telling the story. We absolutely know where he is now, and I can only imagine how happy they were to welcome him to the throne of God. "Go Rest High on That Mountain." A wonderful man.
Gail Edelstein
October 2, 2019
RIP Peter. Thank you for being my friend and mentor. Working for you was the highlight of my government career. I will always remember your kindness.
Harold Younger
September 1, 2019
Rest In Peace partner I'll never forget you. You were my special friend dating back to third grade. Will always remember us singing together at Bethel AME church and later in Alexandria va. Going to so many sporting events you will always be Pete to me I'll never forget you
Charles Feinson
August 25, 2019
I got to know Peter when I taught at Herndon HS. He would come into my classes and present life lessons to my students. He was a wonderful man who had a great impact on people. I am sorry to hear of his passing.
Dug Salley
August 22, 2019
Pete was my boss for FPS back in 1984 and gave me the first opportunity to serve as a supervisor. He was dynamic and to the point! Great mentor!
Nicholas Agnos
August 22, 2019
It was a pleasure to know Peter as a friend at the High School of Commerce.
Glad to hear he had a wonderful life and was so well loved. May he rest in
peace.
Robert Thomas
August 22, 2019
I just stumbled on this sad news about a friend, Peter J. Cole's, who had passed away. I wish to send my condolences to Pete's family. I haven't seen Pete since the late fifties or early 1960. Whenever I saw Nancy I would ask about him. I too was from Springfield, MA and now living in Connecticut. R.I.P. my friend. One day we might see one another again.
Sonny Thomas
Sean Mathews
August 20, 2019
Mr Coles was a bright light at Herndon High School when I was a student there. Genuinely cared about everyone, my friends and I used to all shake his hand when we passed him in the hallway. One of my favorite memories is when he wore my basketball jersey at school on the day of our first home game my senior year. Great impact on my life, he we will be missed.
rebecca billingslea
August 20, 2019
God bless Cousin. Amen. Please tell Momma and Daddy hello. We love you
Patricia McCollough
August 19, 2019
May Mr. Peter J. Coles rest in the presence of ALMIGHTY GOD, The LORD JESUS CHRIST, and the HOLY SPIRIT. Amen.
Cousin Patricia
Patricia McCollough
August 19, 2019
May Mr. Peter Jenkins Coles rest in the presence of ALMIGHTY GOD, The LORD JESUS CHRIST, and The HOLY SPIRIT. Amen.
Mr. Coles is my first Cousin and our Family considered him to be a "third son." His Uncle, my Father, Malcolm Jenkins, held Pete Coles in very high esteem all of his life, as he was special to our Family in more ways than one. In his young years, Cousin Pete practically grew up with my Brothers Twins Malcolm and Marion Jenkins in Springfield, Massachusetts in the 40's, 50's. 60's, and onward. Our Family was especially Blessed to receive the information on the Jenkins Family History, going back several generations, that Cousin Pete diligently researched and collected for posterity.
Our sincere condolences to Mrs. Ethel Coles and other Family, Friends, Colleagues, and Co-Workers.
Much Love and Peace to You all. Be comforted. We all will see Cousin Pete again in Glory.
Sincerely, Cousin Patricia ("Pat").
Tom Oakley
August 18, 2019
To the Cole Family, I send my deepest
Sympathy for your loss of Pete. I have many great memories of him growing up on College St, tobacco farm, the Tyler Club and The Talenteers. I have been trying to contact him just to hear his voice. Pete Coles, Robert Lee Shaver and Curtis v. Oakley are my heroes they will always be in my heart. RIP "COOl ROCKING DADDY".
Frances Ivey
August 18, 2019
I am sending my deepest condolences and prayers to Mrs. Coles and to family and friends of Mr. Peter Coles. I was deeply saddened to hear of his passing. As the former assistant principal and principal at Herndon High School, I watched firsthand the PROFOUND impact Mr. Coles had on the entire HHS community (students, staff and community) as well as on me. He loved everyone he encountered and was a true Ambassador of Good Will. Mr. Coles had a way of connecting with everyone he met. He always had a listening and compassionate ear, a kind and wise word of advice, a funny story or joke, an inspirational quote or lyric, and/or a life lesson to share -whatever was needed at the time. Mr. Coles saw the value in everyone he met and treated everyone with kindness and respect. I am a better leader and we are all better people because we knew him and were influenced by his tremendous example and grace. Heaven has gained another Angel, a true Gentle Giant and Gentleman. Rest in Peace Mr. Coles and say hello to my Dad as you are now together again and can swap your many security stories from your times and service in Philadelphia. God Bless Ms. Ethel and the entire family.
Most Sincerely,
Frances Ivey
Deputy Superintendent Fairfax County Public Schools
Former Assistant Principal and Principal Herndon High School (2001-2007)
Aly Willey
August 17, 2019
Mr. Coles was one of the most warm, genuine, and personable individuals I have ever worked with. He always took the time to ask you how you were and truly cared for everyone around him including the students, teachers and parents. We are all blessed to have known such a special man.
August 17, 2019
So sorry to hear Peter passed away, he was my buddy in school way back in the 40]s Lincoln School, needed a buddy to go out to the playground. Peter also came home at lunchtime to my house because his mom worked as a hygenist in his dad's practice. Lots of happy memories, showed up at a reunion years ago and it was like all the years vanished. Went all through school together, we were friends,
Sincerely,
Jo-Ann Meunier (Kane)
Roy Hayes Hayes
August 17, 2019
Mr. Coles was a fixture at Herndon High. He knew me by name and I was never officially his student. However, that was the man he was, he seemed to know everyone by name. I remember one day I saw him with flowers and he told me they were for his wife. It wasn't for a special occasion, He said after all the years of marriage it is important to show your wife that you still love her as much as when you met her. I graduated Herndon in 2005 but that lesson has stuck with me. I am a better person because of Mr. Coles and the world is better because of him. My deepest condolences for your loss and thank you for sharing Mr. Coles with us.
Sincerely,
Dr. Roy Hayes Jr.
Virginia Wilkinson
August 17, 2019
As the school public health nurse at Herndon High, I often worked with him to help students that needed help. Some of the best times, though were when he stopped by for a chat. He was gracious, funny and a wonderful man. Blessings and prayers for Peter's family and friends in this time of loss. May God uphold you and surround you with His peace.
Paul Reynolds
August 16, 2019
It was a great pleasure seeing and greeting Mr. Coles each day at HHS. His friendly, upbeat personality and joyful, positive attitude made each day at HHS a wonderful experience! He inspired all to become better people. My prayers for the repose of his soul and for the comfort of his family.
Aisha Williams
August 16, 2019
Condolences to the loved ones of Mr Cole's. He was quite memorable and surely will be missed by all hearts he had touched.
Amy Ruschaupt
August 16, 2019
Condolences to the entire Coles family
Peter Coles was a beacon of light, who made everyone smile as he made his rounds through Herndon High School's hallways. I send my love and prayers and know he's doing the same up in Heaven❤
Douglas Graney
August 16, 2019
Peter Coles was a great man, a gentleman and the impact he had on the students and adults at Herndon High can't be measured. He is one of the greatest persons I've ever known. We clicked early with both being from Springfield, Ma and on it went from there. I wish I could have him by my side for one more field trip.
Catherine Walsh
August 16, 2019
We will never say goodbye to Mr. Cole, who never left the creases of our hearts. In our thoughts, he shall always be alive. In our prayers, he shall always be included. He was the sunshine of my day, and alway will be when I think
of him. Truly, he will be missed this year, but always remembered with
heart warmng memories.
Flor Benavides
August 16, 2019
My condolences to the family.
Maureen and Art Wiesemann
August 16, 2019
We are very for your loss. Peter was one of my favorite co-workers at HHS. He always exuded caring and professionalism in his dealings with staff and students. My husband also worked at HHS with Peter. We both smiled at his photo and feel honored to have known him.
Jordan Fleger
August 16, 2019
Mr.Coles you made each day coming into HHS fun. You always gave the best advice and knew how to make me laugh. Heaven gained a very special angel.
God bless.
Mary Blessing
August 16, 2019
Peter was a wise and wonderful man with a big heart. It was ae privilege to know him.
Melanie Fleger
August 16, 2019
Heaven is a little safer now that Pete is there.:-)
We ALL loved him here at Herndon High School! He impacted so many of our lives during his time as one of our Security Specialists.
I will never forget the graduation speech he gave to the Class of 2002. He comforted and inspired those kids, (my older son among them), and made sure they knew that even amongst the evil in the world, after 9/11, THEY would turn it around and do great things for America and the World.
Many of those kids were joining the military after graduation. Pete called those students out to stand proudly in front of their families and peers and made sure that they knew we would stand together with them forever in the fight.
He shared so much with us; his love of books, his huge library of inspirational quotes, his amazing life stories and adventures. But most of all he shared his smile and his friendship and we are all better for knowing Pete and having him touch our lives.
Rest in Peace my friend
Amy Sheedfar Roberson
August 16, 2019
My sincere condolences to the family of Mr. Coles. He was a truly great man with such a wonderful soul that touched everyone he met. He was one of my favorite people to sit down and have a chat with when I worked at Herndon HS.
Enuma Iyob
August 16, 2019
Mr.Coles it was a blessing to know you during my time as a student at Herndon High School. May you Rest In Peace. I also want to give my condolences to your family and loved ones.
Lenita Stewart
August 16, 2019
Mr. Coles was a light throughout my high school career. He was so loving to us all. Always looking towards positivity and growth. A genuine kind soul. I give my condolences to his family and close friends. May his light shine on forever and his memories fill many hearts with joy. God bless.
Dixie Mayall
August 16, 2019
I loved working with Peter at Herndon High School. Peter was such a good person.
Joe Sheaffer
August 16, 2019
It was a true blessing to know Mr. Coles. His daily friendly attitude has greatly inspired my attitude towards others.
Patrice Humpherys
August 16, 2019
Mr. Coles, God gave us an angel here on Earth to touch our lives....as heaven welcomes you home, you will certainly be greeted with open arms for a job well done in the human state. May we all be able to return home with such glory!
Theia Trusselle
August 15, 2019
Mr Coles made Herndon High School better because he filled the halls with infinite wisdom, love and his signature shuffle. May his family find solace in knowing that many others were touched by this gentle man. Mr. Coles you were loved immensely and I'm ever grateful of your presence during your time st HHS. So many staff and students are better because we knew you!
Sheila Alzate
August 15, 2019
I wish everyone approached life as exuberantly as Mr. Coles! He was always positive and had a smile or laugh to share with those whom he interacted. His life experiences served as his stories of encouragement, support and motivation for others. He always had a book in his hand as a subtle reminder of the importance of educating oneself and proving a platform for conversation on any and all topics. A humble man who I respected tremendously. I only wish the world had more people of the caliber as Mr. Coles.
Kathleen Jacoby
August 15, 2019
Peter was one of my first friends at Herndon High School. We bonded over book club, but he ALWAYS stopped me in the hall with a kind word, story, or to talk about what we were reading. He left this world better than he found it.
Richard Cassara
August 15, 2019
It was my honor to work with Peter Coles for many years at Herndon High School. He was as good a man as I have ever known. Fair winds, my friend.
Liz Grozis
August 15, 2019
My deepest condolences to your family. He was a truly amazing man and had such a wonderful spirit. He was a blessing to Herndon High School before his retirement.
Caitlyn Harp
August 15, 2019
I went to HHS when Mr. Coles worked there. He was such a wonderful, funny man. He caught me humming in the hallway and told me to let it out. I sang for/with him all the time and he just moved his head and was snapping his fingers. He made my bad days not so bad. He never failed to put a smile on my face. I always looked forward to talking to him outside of the cafeteria. He will be dearly missed. He was an AMAZING kind hearted soul. May he Rest In Peace.
Bobby Harmon
August 15, 2019
Me coles was one of the most influential people of my high school years he will surly be missed.
Reginald Barnes
August 15, 2019
Heaven has gained one heck of a soul, and great man. My condolences to Ms Ethel and the Coles family.
Reid Leaness
August 15, 2019
It is with a heavy heart I am am sending my condolences. Regional Director Coles (as he was to me) was a great leader and even better person. We kept in touch for many years after his Federal Service and has continued to be an inspiration for me to be a better human being. RIP Mr Coles.
DWIGHT & CYNTHIA WALTERS
August 15, 2019
mr. peter j. coles was wonderful and caring man. He will be missed greatly.our condoleces to his wife, my sister along with all the and friends. my he rest in peace with jesus Christ in heaven amen.
Gloria Hampton
August 14, 2019
My heartfelt condolences to the family of Peter Coles. May God bless you with strength and courage. He will forever be loved and missed.
Barbara Smith
August 14, 2019
My heartfelt condolences to the family of Peter Coles. I will always remember Peter as a kind and loving person. May he rest in peace.
evangeline howell
August 14, 2019
My deepest sympathy to the family of Peter J. Coles
Wishing you strength and peace at this time of loss.
August 14, 2019
I had the privilege of working with Pete in Region 3. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. RIP
Marianne Crocetto
Louis Pepe
August 14, 2019
My sincerest sympathy, I worked for Pete in Region 3 of the Federal Protective Service, he could hold your attention a very well spoken man. RIP
Rebecca Billingslea
August 13, 2019
God bless Cousin Peter. Rest in Peace. Amen
N. S.
August 12, 2019
My deepest sympathy to the family of Peter Coles. May you be comforted in knowing that our Heavenly Father cares for you. He will give you strength and courage to cope with your grief. Psalm 94:17-19
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