Robert Edward “Duke” Cole, Sr., 87 of Delaware Road, Franklin, VA entered into eternal rest on May 23, 2011. “Duke” was born in Southampton County. He served his country in the United States Navy and was a World War II Veteran. He was retired for many years after working as a farmer. He had a great gift of being able to fix almost anything and especially loved repairing cars.

He was preceded in death by his parents Charlie and Annie Sue Cole; brothers, Otis Cole, Herman Cole, and William Cole; sisters, Velma Cole and Mary Novell.

He leaves to cherish his memory, Marion Cole of Hampton, VA; the mother of their seven children; sons, Robert Cole, Jr. of Midlothian, VA and Ronnie Cole (Lucinda) of Newsoms, VA; daughters, Tina Lewis (David) of Richmond, VA, Jackie Francisco of Newport News, VA, Sylvia Sinagra of Hampton, VA, Patricia Cole of Midlothian, VA and Kesha Billups (Ronald) of Mechanicsville, VA; two daughters, Ann Harris of New York and Annie Lewis of Chesapeake, VA; brother, Charles Cole of Franklin, VA and sister, Jane Cole of Bronx, NY; 15 grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and a host of family and friends.

Funeral Services will be held, Saturday, May 28 at 11:00 am at Mount Taber Baptist Church, 28668 North Main Street, Newsoms, VA 23874 and will be officiated by his nephew, Pastor Jeremiah Cole. The committal and benediction will follow at Southview Cemetery. On the day of the service, his remains will rest in church for viewing by 9:30 AM. A traditional service with dignity will be conducted by Wm. M. Johnson & Sons, Inc., 224 South Main Street, Franklin, VA. Please share your condolences with the family at www.wmjohnsonandsons.com