Toby Cecil Cole

Toby Cecil Cole, Sr. peacefully passed away Monday, August 3, 2015, at the Deerfield Retirement Community after a long illness. All who knew him will forever remember him as a strong and devoted husband, father, and friend. Toby was the son of the late John Hanford and Helena Lancaster Cole. He was also preceded in death by his brother Jack Cole and his first wife Clara Herron Cole. He graduated from Lee Edwards High School, Mars Hill College and NC State University. For over 30 years, he worked as an engineer at Singer Kearfott, located in Black Mountain, NC. Gardening, fishing and traveling were life-long passions and he joyfully shared the fruits of his labor with family, friends and neighbors. Toby is survived by his wife of 21 years, Kathy Siegel Cole who lovingly cared for him during his illness. He is also survived by his four children, Dr. Jack Cole (Bethann) of Greenville, NC, Mr. David Cole (Teresa) of Winter Haven, FL, Dr. Toby Cole (Patricia) of Asheville, Mrs. Linda Roudebush (Bill) of Charleston, SC; grandchildren Joshua and Olivia Cole, Harrison Fine, Will and Claire Cole, Lauren and Daniel Cole and Emily Roudebush; step-children, Jann Margeson of Farmington, NM and David Siegel of Columbus, GA. Throughout his life, he provided his children and grandchildren with loving guidance and support. He was a gentle and honorable man who treasured his family, He will always be remembered for his caring advice, strong character, and devotion to those he loved. A funeral service will be held at 11 AM Saturday, August 8, 2015 at Groce United Methodist Church, with visitation following. Rev. Gerald Davis will officiate. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Daniel Boone Council of the Boy Scouts of America in the name of Toby Cole, Sr., 333 Haywood St., Asheville, NC 28801. The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff of Deerfield, the Oncology floor of the St. Josephs Campus of Mission Health, and Care Partners Hospice for their support and care of Toby. Groce Funeral Home on Tunnel Road is assisting the family.