William Joseph “Bill” Cole passed away on March 13, 2015. He was born on May 23, 1933, in Butler, Pennsylvania, to Margaret Steyer Cole and Robert Cole. Bill was the middle of three sons, with older brother Robert (Bob) and younger brother Thomas (Tom). After their father passed away when Bill was 10 years old, the three boys were raised by their mother.

Bill proudly served in the United States Air Force, enlisting in 1955. While stationed in Lincoln, Nebraska, he met his future wife, Mary Alice Haines. They were married on November 1, 1956, and together they raised two sons, Robert and Daniel.

Bill completed his military service in August 1959, after which the family moved to St. Petersburg, Florida, to be closer to his mother. He began his career in banking with Citizens Bank as an auditor and later joined Pinellas Central Bank in Largo, Florida, where he rose to the position of Vice President. During this time, the family relocated to Largo, where they lived until 1980. After their sons had grown and moved out, Bill and Mary settled in Inverness, Florida. There, Bill continued his banking career with the Bank of Inverness until his retirement in 1995.

A devoted father, Bill cherished time spent with his sons, enjoying camping trips, fishing, and sports. He also served as an assistant scoutmaster during their years in scouting. Bill shared his love of hands-on work with his boys, often tinkering with cars and taking on home improvement projects. In later years, he developed a passion for hunting and became a member of several hunting clubs.

Following retirement, Bill and Mary moved several times before settling in Valdosta, Georgia, to be closer to their son Robert. Both were active volunteers in their community, including service with South Georgia Medical Center. They were also devoted members of Boston Presbyterian Church in Boston, Georgia.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Mary; his sons, Robert Cole and his wife Diane, and Daniel Cole and his wife Pamela; and his two grandchildren, Matthew Cole and Sarah Cole.

Bill will be laid to rest at Florida National Cemetery. Online condolences may be shared at www.mclanecares.com.

Carson McLane Funeral Home is assisting the Cole family.