With hearts filled with love and gratitude, the Cole family announces the transition of their beloved Mrs. Norma Jean Smyre Cole on March 20, 2025. A faithful servant of God, a devoted wife, and cherished friend, she embodied grace, kindness, and unwavering faith throughout her 81 years of life.

Born in Salisbury, NC, on December 20, 1943, to the late Thomas and Luvenia Walker Smyre, Mrs. Norma was nurtured in a home of love and faith. She was educated in the Rowan County school system, graduating from J.C. Price High School in 1962. Though she briefly attended Livingstone College, her true calling led her to serve in education, where she became a beloved presence in the school system for over 30 years. As a dedicated secretary at Monroe Street School, J.C. Price High School, and Knox Middle School, she was a source of warmth and encouragement to students, teachers, and staff alike.

Mrs. Norma was a woman who walked in faith and lived according to God’s will. A faithful member of the United House of Prayer For All People in Salisbury, NC, she served with dedication as Cabinet Secretary, a committed member of the Nurse Board, and an active participant in the Business Club. Her love for worship was evident as she played the piano during devotion and praise and worship, lifting spirits through the power of music.

Beyond her service to the church and community, Mrs. Norma found joy in the simple yet profound gifts of life. She had an avid love for reading, a passion for watching comedy shows that filled her home with laughter, and a deep affection for cooking and baking—especially her famous pound cakes. Her favorite colors, black and white, reflected her timeless elegance and refined taste.

Above all, Mrs. Norma was a devoted and loving wife to Mr. John H. Cole. Their 54 years of marriage were a testament to a love that was both beautiful and destined by God. Together, they built a life centered on faith, love, and unwavering devotion to one another.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved daughter, Regina Cole, and her siblings, Robert Smyre, Jimmy Walker, and Alice Johnson. She leaves to cherish her memory to her devoted husband, John H. Cole; her godson, Damarius Griffin; special nieces, Velma and Teresa Johnson; nephews, Maurice (Deborah) Walker and Terry (Renee) Johnson; sisters-in-law, Joyce Smyre of Salisbury and Roberta Walker of Baltimore, MD; her dear friend, Kathy Hill; and a host of nieces, nephews, and family on the Cole side.

Mrs. Norma Jean Smyre Cole lived a life rich in faith, service, and love, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her. While we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life well-lived, confident that she now rests in the eternal embrace of the Lord.