James Chester Cole, 76 of Sebastians Branch, Kentucky went home to be with the Lord Thursday, October 1, 2026 at the Pikeville Medical Center in Pikeville, Kentucky.
Born on February 27, 1950 in Elsom Creek, Kentucky, James was the son of Thomas and Myrtle Herald Cole. He served his country as a United States Marine Corps veteran during the Vietnam War from 1969 to 1971 and was awarded two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star for his service.
Following his military service, Mr. Cole worked as a butcher at Kahn's Meat Packing. He will be remembered for a life centered on his family and for the steady presence he maintained through the years. Among the things he enjoyed most were spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren, as well as reading and watching television.
James Chester Cole shared 54 years of marriage with his wife, Nancy Marie Griffith Cole. He is also remembered by his son, Thomas Chester Cole; his daughter, Jamie Maria Turner and her husband, Richard; his grandchildren, Sadie Marie, Cole Walker and Kaylee Maria; his brothers, Larry Cole and his wife, Lois and Darryl Cole and his wife, Bonnie; his sisters, Eileen Hall and her husband, Granville, Mattie Keena, and Carol Raleigh and her husband, Bob.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Myrtle Herald Cole; his brothers, William Cole and Thomas Cole Jr.; and his sister-in-law, Sarah Cole.
Visitation for James will be held Sunday, October 4, 2026 from 11:00 AM until the time of his funeral service beginning at 1:00 PM at Breathitt Funeral Home with Pat Turner officiating. Military rites will be observed at the beginning of the funeral service. Burial will follow in the Johnny Griffith Cemetery, Hwy. 315, Sebastians Branch with family and friends serving as pallbearers.
James Chester Cole’s life was marked by service to his country, dedication to his work, and devotion to his family. His memory will remain with those who knew and loved him.
"Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14: 1-3
