On January 31, 2024, Willie Edward Cole, Jr., 63, of Winston-Salem, NC, after a valiant fight, peacefully transitioned from his earthly home to Glory.

He was born on September 15, 1960, to the union of Willie Edward Cole and Gloria Sales Cole. He was known to many as "J" or "June" Cole.

He was educated in the public schools of Winston-Salem, NC and received additional culinary training from various sources.

His employment history was varied. It included work for Winston-Salem Healthcare, K & W Cafeterias,  KFC Restaurants, and the A.B.M Company.

Willie Edward Cole, Jr. was preceded in death by his parents; maternal and paternal grandparents; and several aunts and uncles.

Surviving to cherish precious memories are his three daughters, Lashondria Spearman, LaTashia Renee Cole and Jasmine Cole; grandson, DreShawn Spearman; great grandson, Ace Spearman; stepmother, Gwendolyn Amos Cole; step siblings, Carolyn Ross, Barry Ross, David Ross, and Will J. Ross, III; aunts, Emma Ingram, Ann Galloway, Ruby Griffin, Barbara Surratt, and Blondie (George) Glenn; fiancée and devoted care giver, Williette "Cookie" Rorie; son-in-love, Minister Robert Alexander; and a host of other family members and friends.

Let each of us, who knew him, reflect on our personal relationship with him and find a moment of shared joy and laughter. By so doing, he will live on in our hearts and minds.

A memorial service for Willie Edward Cole, Jr. will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, February 10, 2024 at the Russell Funeral Home Chapel, 822 Carl Russell Ave., Winston-Salem, NC 27101 with Reverend Dr. Leon Cole, Jr., officiating.