Jeanette Tillman Cole, 92, was born on July 18, 1933, in Valdosta, Georgia, to the late Henry Young Tillman and Neva Mathis Tillman. She peacefully ended her earthly journey at her beloved home in Conifer, Colorado, on the morning of June 24, 2026.

Following the death of her husband, Luther M. Cole, in 1960, Jeanette moved to Jefferson County, Colorado, to begin a new chapter in her life. She began her career as an elementary school teacher, serving students in Jefferson County for 13 years. After earning her master's degree in Counseling and Guidance in Greeley, Colorado, she went on to serve as a junior high school counselor in Evergreen and Arvada for the next 16 years. In both roles, she was deeply loved and respected by her students and colleagues. Throughout the years, she maintained lasting friendships with many of her former students, as well as with her family and extended family.

Jeanette embraced life with enthusiasm and a spirit of adventure. She loved traveling, camping, skiing, biking, and canoeing, and was fortunate to explore many remarkable destinations throughout the United States and abroad. A lifelong member of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), her faith remained a guiding force throughout her life.

She spent much of her retirement in Conifer, where the beauty of the mountains and forests, along with the visits of cherished family and friends, brought her the peace and joy she had always dreamed of. It was truly her own little paradise.

Jeanette is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Young and Penny Tillman; her sister, Sara Tillman, all of Lowndes County, Georgia; the grandchildren and great grandchildren of her Cole in-laws, all of Florida and two goddaughters both of Colorado; many beloved nieces and nephews; and a host of dear friends and former students. She was deeply grateful for the love, friendship, and support each of them brought into her life.

A funeral service for Mrs. Cole will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at First Christian Church with Pastor John Chick officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m., prior to the service. Mrs. Cole will be laid to rest beside her husband at Sunset Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please donate to a favorite charity or First Christian Church of Valdosta. Online condolences may be shared at www.mclanecares.com.

Carson McLane Funeral Home