Mr. James Cole

Adams announces the passing of Mr. James Benjamin Cole “Big Daddy”, 81, who transitioned on Tuesday, November 19, 2019 at his residence.

Adams announces Funeral Services for Mr. James Benjamin Cole which will be held 12:00 P.M., Saturday, November 23, 2019 at
First Bryan Baptist Church 575 W Bryan Street Sav, GA.
Interment: Greenwich Cemetery 330 Greenwich Rd, Savannah, GA 31404.

Story Of Life:

James Benjamin Cole, son of the late George and Sophie Cole, was born November 26, 1937, in Savannah, Georgia. He peacefully passed away at his home on November 19, 2019, a week prior to his 82nd birthday.

James was the last of nine siblings who preceded him in death. Brothers included: George Cole, Henry Cole and Richard Cole and sisters: Edna Hallman, Marion Scott, Josie Brooks, Margaret Brown and Hattie Grant. A son, Rufus Cole, also preceded him in death.

James met the love of his life, the late Lois Jean Williams Cole, and was married on February 10, 1969. Together they shared and raised six lovely children. He was educated in the public schools of Savannah-Chatham County where he played high school football. James was a man that possessed several talents and gifts throughout his lifetime. He was known around the city as “Big Daddy” because of his physical strength and statue.

James was a “Man’s Man”. In his earlier days he was an amateur boxer, bodybuilder and weightlifter. He enjoyed going to the gym and working out. James was employed by Savannah Dixie Crystal for several years and retired in January of 1997. He also rebuilt and tuned pianos throughout Savannah and the Southeast for Upchurch Music Company and later opened his own business.  For many years he was known as the first Black Piano Tuner in the Savannah area. He received a resolution acknowledgement during “Juneteenth” in recognition as the only Black Piano Tuner in this area. Additionally, James received his Commercial Trucking License from Savannah Technical Institute and enjoyed driving his “Big Rig” for many years. He was also an avid musician and played the bass guitar in a band called, “The Peppers.” He was truly an entrepreneur as he owned several businesses in the Savannah area to include a laundromat on the East side of Savannah.

James was a strong man of good character who never gave up on anything and always had a strong and determined spirit. He was a family man and loved his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren deeply. James never met a stranger and always had something to say to anyone he came in contact with. He was also a die-hard Georgia Bulldog fan.

James was a member of First Bryan Baptist Church. He received Christ later in his life and was baptized. James leaves to cherish his memories five children:  Rose Mobley, Melvin Cole, Lietzyl Haynes (Winston), Verita Fleming (Harry), Yolanda Roberson (Charles), a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives and special friends.

Order Flowers & Sign The Guestbook: www.AdamsFuneralServicesInc.com