Jonathan Leslie Cole, a man whose laughter was as infectious as his stories were tall, passed away on June 12, 2026, in West Orange, Texas. Born on February 23, 1972, in Jasper, Texas, Jonathan lived a life full of creativity, humor, and boundless love.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Bean Cemetery in Kirbyville.
Visitation will be prior to the service beginning at 10:00 a.m., at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
A true master of all trades, Jonathan was a carpenter by profession, but his skills knew no bounds. He could fix anything and, given the chance, could build a house from the ground up with his own two hands. He was, as many knew, a "mama's boy" through and through, carrying that loving spirit into every aspect of his life. Jonathan had a special touch with children, earning him the cherished title of "Paw paw" to his beloved grandchildren. He was a big jokester, always ready with a witty remark or a captivating story that would leave everyone in stitches. His artistic talents were evident in his ability to draw anything, and he found joy in singing, playing the harmonica, and the beauty of poems. He truly was very funny, bringing light and laughter wherever he went. He will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing his vibrant spirit and generous heart.
Jonathan was preceded in death by his parents, Loranza and Peggy Cole; his son, Jonathan Dewayne Cole; and his brothers, Dennis Cole, Anzul Cole, and Gary Cole.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter through his daughters, Kacey Cole, Rebecca Cole and her spouse John Shaver, Bri’anna King, and Starr Marie. His spirit will live on in his grandchildren, Dalilah, Syenna, Tyenna, Alyssa, Darrius, Ayanna, Chanel, James, Jr., King, and Kyson. Jonathan is also survived by his siblings, Fred Cole and Rebecca Ann Cole; his significant other, Andrea Lipchak; and a large loving family including Aaron Cole, Joshua Cole, Chris Cole, Latricia Wilson, Vanessa Bradley, Adalynn and Joshua Cole, Leslie Cole, John Depew, Tina Cole, Tracey King, R.T., Joe Joe Cole, Colby Green, Joseph Molbert, and Kaitlynn Molbert.
Serving as pallbearers will be John Shaver, Josh Cole, Harold Hubbard, Jules Carpenter, Michael Dodd, and Thomas Newman.