Matthew G. Cole

Matt Cole Sr. died February 28th from natural causes surrounded by his loving family in his Hendersonville, NC home. He is survived by his beloved wife of sixty-four years Letitia “Lee” Cole (nee Grant), his four children Matthew, Mary, Peter (Stephanie) and Andrew (Ann), his three grandchildren Zachary, Trinity, and Phoebe, his sister Roseann Moran (nee Cole), and many nieces and nephews. Preceded by his loving parents Matthew James Cole and Mary Elizabeth Cole (nee Bishop), and sister Mary Leahy (nee Cole).

Originally from Brooklyn, NY, Matt was a graduate of Saint John’s University and Brooklyn Prep high school, as well as a 5+ year veteran of the U.S. Navy where he was an Aviation Petty Officer 1st Class, honorably discharged in 1953. Matt had a highly successful business career with National Distillers & Chemical Corporation where he was head of international sales for their wine and spirits division. His naval service coupled with his corporate career allowed Matt to visit over 50 countries across six continents.

Matt and Letitia retired to North Carolina in 1994 where they have been devoted parishioners at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church for over 28 years. Matt was known for his deep devotion to his family, country, and his church. His quick wit and charitable nature will be missed by all who knew him.

A funeral mass will be held at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church on Friday, March 4th at 2:30pm. The family will receive friends the evening prior, Thursday, March 3rd, at the Chapel at Forest Lawn Funeral Home from 5:00 – 7:00pm with military honors being rendered at 6:45pm.