Ivan Cole

1927 - 2024

Ivan Cole

November 5, 1927 - September 10, 2024

Ivan Clark Cole, 96, a resident of Richmond, VA, died at home on September 10, 2024. He was born in Johnson City, TN, on November 5, 1927, to Ira and Bessie Cole and was the youngest of five children. After high school, he served in the US Army before moving to Blacksburg to play basketball at Virginia Tech. After college he joined the FBI as a special agent and moved to the northeast. He married the love of his life, Elizabeth Montgomery, in 1952, and they enjoyed 71 years of marriage. He was extremely proud of his children, Debra Cole, Clark Cole (Karen) and Margaret Duke (Jimmy); and grandchildren, Brice Cole (RayeCarol Cavender), Carter Cole (Hannah Novotny) and Stephen Sears (Savannah). After the FBI, Ivan moved back to Virginia to work for National Gypsum Company and was District Sales Manager at the time of his retirement. Sports were always important to Ivan. He was on two state championship teams in high school and enjoyed playing golf and tennis until his mid 80's at Avalon Recreation Association and Willow Oaks Country Club. Church and civic organizations were also important to Ivan. He was a member of River Road Presbyterian Church and Third Church and served as an Elder and taught Sunday school at both. He was a member of West Richmond Rotary and West Richmond Business Men's Association. Ivan never met a stranger. He loved people and his Hokies. In his own words, "God has been good to me and I have enjoyed my life. My final request is that you reach out and do something good for a friend in need."

A celebration of life will be held Tuesday, September 24, at 2 p.m., at Community West Church, 2340 Pump Road, Henrico, VA, 23233. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to Third Church, 600 Forest Avenue, Richmond, VA, 23229 or the charity of your choice.