09/29/2023
Miller Moster Robbins Funeral Home
1704 Grand Ave
Connersville, Indiana
Sherman Cole Obituary
Sherman Edward "Ed" Cole, Jr., 74, went home to be with the Lord late Thursday evening September 28, 2023 surrounded by his loving family at his home in Connersville following a courageous battle with cancer.
One of four children of Sherman Edward, Sr. and Gladys Lilly Yates Cole, Ed was born in Richlands, Virgina on January 29, 1949. He graduated from Connersville High School with the class of 1967.
Following graduation, Ed enlisted in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Madrid, Spain during the Vietnam era. A proud veteran, Ed was a member of Indiana Patriot Guard Riders, VFW, and Amvets.
On March 24, 1973, Ed was married by Reverend Kenneth Chandler to the former Rita Reed in First Baptist Church. Mrs. Cole survives.
Ed was employed for over 30 years at 7-UP Snapple Dr. Pepper in Spiceland. He started as a truck driver and bottle sorter working his way up to plant manager. Ed retired in 2015.
A loving and caring man, Ed was generous with his time with his family and grandchildren. When his children were young, he coached his children's sports teams, helped with band, and enjoyed camping with family and friends. He served multiple terms as Exalted Ruler of the Loyal Order of the Elks. He was a faithful member of First Baptist Church where in the past he drove the bus for many years. Ed was a man who never knew a stranger and was a friend to anyone he met. After retirement, Ed enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle and traveling with his wife. A few of his favorite trips were going to Black Hills, South Dakota and riding the Tail of the Dragon in Tennessee.
Besides his wife of over 50 years, Rita Cole, survivors include three children, Gina Vanover of Plainfield, Indiana, Benjamin "BJ" (Christian) Cole of Georgetown, Kentucky, and Alicia (Doug) Bingham of Brownsburg, Indiana; seven grandchildren, Kristin Vanover, Nicholas Vanover, Brice Cole, Drew Cole, Chloe Cole, Shelby Bingham, and Cole Bingham; three siblings, Sandy (Bob) Collins of Richmond, Indiana, Debi Zimmerman of Spiceland, Indiana, Charles (Valorie) Cole of Kirkland, Indiana; two cousins raised as Ed's siblings, Don (Claudia) Yates and Rita (John) Bodwell all of Fishers, Indiana; mother-in-law, Jenny Reed of Connersville; and several nieces and nephews.
Ed was preceded in death by his parents; a cousin raised as a brother, Terry Yates; a niece, Shermene Burns; a brother-in-law, Ron Zimmerman; and father-in-law, Ernie Reed.
Family and friends may visit from 11 a.m. until the time of service at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, October 4, 2023 at Miller, Moster, Robbins Funeral Home. Pastor Mal Gibson will officiate. Burial with military honors will follow in Lick Creek Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Fayette County Cancer Society or First Baptist Church. Online condolences may be made anytime at millermosterrobbins.com.
