Sherry Cole

(From Bixby Funeral Service)

Sherry Ann Cole, dedicated educator and community leader, passed away on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at the Solace House of the Ozarks in Joplin Missouri. She was 78 years old.

Born on November 8, 1946, in Henryetta, Oklahoma, Sherry was the daughter of Ray and Wanda (Bevan) Baker. She moved to Joplin, Missouri at an early age and graduated from Joplin High school in 1964, where she was an active Rainbow Girl during her youth, and attended Girls State.

Sherry pursued her passion for education, attending Missouri Southern State College and earning her Master's degree from Pittsburg State University in Education Administration. Throughout her distinguished career, she taught Biology and Chemistry at several schools, including Sarcoxie, Carl Junction, and Riverton High School, where she retired from teaching. She also taught at Labette Community College.

Her professional journey included serving as an Assistant Superintendent in Lexington, Missouri, for two years. She was particularly passionate about community service, serving as the Regional Director of the Alzheimer's Association Joplin office for six years. She also opened the first non-medical home care company, Compassionate Care Senior Services, in the Joplin area, then expanding into Oklahoma.

On February 22, 1975, Sherry married Jerry L. Cole in Joplin, Missouri. Beyond her professional achievements, Sherry was a devoted family woman. Sherry was deeply involved in every community where she taught, her life was characterized by her commitment to family, education, and service.

Sherry is survived by her loving husband, Jerry L. Cole; her children Scott Cole (Lesa), Kerri Still, and Kelly Cole (Hannah Metcalf); grandchildren Colin Cole, Alex Still (Ashley), MJ Still, Abigail Cole, and Jullian Cole; three great-grandchildren Jace, Avery, and Brooklyn; her brother Philip Baker; and two nephews, Jeff Cole and Mark Baker.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

A Celebration of Sherry's life will be held Saturday, November 30, 2024, in the Conference Center at the Christ Community Church in Joplin starting at 2:00pm with a Remembrance Candle Lighting at 3:15pm. Feel free to come and go as you please during Sherry's celebration.

The family has requested guests not wear all black for the celebration.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association or the Solace House of the Ozarks.