Richard J. “Jody” Cole Sr., 76, of Sulphur passed away at 4:48 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024, in a Sulphur hospital. 

Mr. Cole was born on Aug. 5, 1948, in Beaumont, Texas and was raised in Sulphur. He was a 1968 graduate of Sulphur High School where he played football. Upon graduating, Mr. Cole attended an apprenticeship program with the Plumber and Steamfitters Union Local #106, where he was the recipient of many awards and retired as a lead estimator in the construction field.  

A lifelong advocate of the Boy Scouts of America for over 50 years, Jody’s impact was profound. He served as a scout master throughout his life, actively participating in NOAC, conclaves, and national jamborees. His contributions were recognized with prestigious honors including the Eagle Scout, Vigil Honor Member, District Award of Merit, Silver Beaver Award, Founders Award, George Meany Award, and the Centurion Award. Jody influenced so many young boys in his scouting career where they grew up as leaders of world today.  Known affectionately as the “patch trader,” Jody was passionate about trading Boy Scout patches and mentored countless young boys, treating each one equally with respect and kindness. 

In addition to his involvement in Scouting, Jody was a dedicated member of the Sulphur Rotary Club and was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow. His commitment to conservation was evident through his lifetime donations to Ducks Unlimited.  Jody was Co-Citizen of the Year with his son, Richard, for the Wes Cal Association of Commerce.  He attended numerous DU State Conventions and National Conventions. He was a Life Sponsor of Ducks Unlimited United States and Mexico. 

Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of nearly 56 years, Jolene Cole of Sulphur; his children, Richard J. Cole Jr. and James Cole both of Sulphur; sisters, Gail McInnis of Sulphur and Becky Vincent of Kaplan; grandchildren, Jeffrie, Jaron, and Ryan Cole, Victoria Cole Hanks, and Johnathan and Hayden Cole; great-grandchildren, Asher, Alayla, and Harper; his beloved furry companion, Paco and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who he adored. 

He was preceded in death by a son, Jeffrie Paul Cole; parents, Lillian and Jack Linscomb; father, Eston “Pete” Cole; brother, Freddie Cole; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Dan and Josie Collier; and brothers-in-law, Donald McInnis, Devons Vincent, and Danny Collier. 

Cremation was entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home.  A celebration of life will be held Sept. 1, 2024, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at his favorite coffee hangout, Fatboyz Kitchen Table in Westlake, La., because the coffee was free. 

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff in the ER and ICU at West Cal Cam Hospital and to the EMT’s and Paramedics at Acadian Ambulance for their exceptional care and concern dedicated to Mr. Cole in his last days. 

Words of comfort to the family may be expressed at www.Johnsonfuneral home.net.