Bessie Cole

In Loving Memory of Bessie Mae Cole Sunrise: June 5th, 1938 - Sunset: July 8th, 2025 Bessie Mae Cole was born in Shaw, Mississippi in 1938 to the late A.R. "Plunk" Jones and Lucille Jones (née King). At the age of 17, she gave her life to Christ and lived the rest of her days as a proud, devout Apostolic Pentecostal Christian. Her unwavering faith and boisterous strength were the foundation of the love she gave so freely to others. Bessie was a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She shared a long and loving life of 51 years with her husband, Foster Cole, who will continue to cherish her memory. Together, they raised a beautiful family and built a legacy rooted in faith, unity, and unconditional love. She is survived by her children: Lawrence Rideaux of Springfield, MA; Kirk Rideaux of Manchester, CT; Jay D. Seal Jr. and his wife,Juanita, of Springfield, MA; and Eric Cole Sr. of Springfield, MA; and was preceded in death by her son, Alexander Seal and her grandson, Kirk J. Rideaux. Bessie shared a profoundly special bond with her grandson, Kirk J. Rideaux, whom she raised and loved as a son. His passing brought deep sorrow, but she continued to speak of him with pride and unwavering love. We find comfort in knowing their spirits are now reunited in eternal peace. Her grandchildren include Keith Rideaux, Kevin Rideaux, Deschaine Griffin and husband Christopher Griffin, Ramona Hicks, Jade Brown and husband Helton Brown, Joseph Seal and wife Aaliyah Seal, Joseph P. Mendes, Zhanae Cole, Mya Cole, Eric Cole Jr., Mia Thompson, and Autumn Thompson. Her great-grandchildren include Essence Hicks, Ashanti Hicks, Ionna Rideaux, Kevin Rideaux Jr., Chrishane Griffin, Jai'VianGriffin, and Jeremiah Brown. She also leaves behind her nieces, nephews, and a host of family members who will miss her greatly. She is survived by her dear siblings - Johnny F. Jones of Bristol, CT; James E. Jones of New Britain, CT; Alexander Jones of New Britain, CT; Charlesetta Amos of New Britain, CT; Doris Jones of Putnam, CT; her brother-in-law, William Cole, of Indian Orchard, MA - and reunited in heaven with Leroy Jones, Allen R. Jones Sr., Arthur L. Jones, and Flora Spencer. Bessie lived a life of worship, kindness, and selfless devotion. Her love lives on in every prayer whispered, every memory shared, and every heart she touched. "Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23 To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bessie, please visit our floral store.