Vernon Ray Cole

Vernon Ray Cole, age 91, of Henderson, KY, passed away at 10:59AM, Saturday, March 31, 2018 at Colonial Assisted Living under the care of St. Anthony’s Hospice. Vernon was a man of great faith. He was ordained as a deacon at Hyland Baptist Church, a member of the Gideon’s International, and a member of First Baptist Church, in Henderson. He was instrumental in putting together and acting as manager for the gospel music group called “Gloryland”. Vernon was a 32nd degree Master Mason of Jerusalem Lodge #9, Past Master, and a member of the Eastern Star Chapter 186, Past Worthy Patron. He recently received an award for being the oldest living Past Master. Vernon often visited the residents at Redbanks and Henderson Nursing and Rehab Center and enjoyed time in fellowship and in making new friends. Vernon was once awarded for having the most unique name for a grandparent by the First Kids Pre-School. He was known as Grand-Man to his grandchildren and great grandchildren, who brought him much pride and joy. In addition to his parents, Henry Lee and Hattie Cole, Vernon was preceded in death by his grandson, Brandon Lee Abell and siblings: Cleo Cole, Starling Cole, Carvil Cole, Nell Heater and Velvee Duckworth. Survivors include: Wife of almost 70 years, Iona Hulsey Cole. 3 Daughters: Donna Stinson and her husband Gene, Lisa Cole and Nancy Ray and her husband Ronnie. 7 Grandchildren: Matt Stinson, David Stinson (Christina), Cara Wesner (Chris), Alicia Mays (Johnny), Alison Stanley (Justin), Andrew Ray (Heather) and Isaac Ray (Jenna). 12 Great Grandchildren: Hannah Ray, Colten Ray, Brennen Stanley, Braedon Stanley, Brooke Stanley, Brynlee Stanley, Alex Stinson, Chase Stinson, Claire Stinson, Stella Wesner, Elyse Mays and Kate Mays. Nieces and Nephews Relatives and friends are invited to Vernon’s Life Celebration from 4:00-8:00PM, Tuesday, April 3, 2018 at Tapp Funeral Home. A Masonic Service will be held at 6:00PM that evening at the funeral home Vernon’s Life Celebration will start again at 10:00AM on Wednesday at First Baptist Church. The funeral service will be held at 1:00PM on Wednesday at the church with Rev. Todd Linn, PhD officiating and Rev Gary Maynard assisting. Burial will follow at Fairmont Cemetery, in Henderson, KY. Pallbearers will be: Matt Stinson, David Stinson, Andrew Ray, Isaac Ray, Brennen Stanley and Braedon Stanley. Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to: Gideon’s International or St. Anthony’s Hospice 2410 S. Green St. Henderson, KY. Arrangements entrusted to Tapp Funeral Home, A Life Celebration® Home, online condolences may be made at www.tappfh.com

Vernon Ray Cole

July 17, 1927 - March 31, 2018