Jim D. Cole, age 87, of Russellville, died Monday, May 5, 2025, at his home.  He was born March 29, 1938, in Blanchard, Oklahoma to William Cecil and Opal Irene Thompson Cole.

Jim grew up ranching in Oklahoma and West Texas and moved to Russellville in the 1950's to attend Arkansas Tech University, which was then Arkansas Polytechnic College.  He played basketball for the Wonder Boys, completed two years of college, and met the love of his life, Mary Adeline Caldwell.  Jim proudly served his country with the United States Army during the Berlin Crisis of 1961, and upon returning from Germany he settled down on Crow Mountain to build a farm and a family.

Jim loved farming and was proud of the cattle herd he built.  He traveled extensively to buy the best cattle to improve the bloodline of his herd. He enjoyed watching things grow and was the first one to be a "friend helping a friend."  Jim enjoyed working with his friends and family and contributed to building neighbor's homes, putting up hay, and lending his expertise in any way that he could. He was a gentle mountain of a man, and his quiet manner masked his dry sense of humor.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Mary Adeline Caldwell Cole; a sister, Braunitta Carol McKinney; and a brother, David Cole.

Survivors include his son and daughter-in-law, Eric and Mindy Cole of Rogers; a daughter and son-in-law, Tracy Cole and Dan Warwick of Pottsville; a sister, Virginia Treadway; and three grandchildren, Tristan Cole, Brandon Cole, and Eva Cole.

The graveside service will be at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Hoskins Cemetery on Crow Mountain with the Reverend Don Erwin officiating under the direction of Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville.

The family will have a gathering immediately following the graveside service at Jim's home. All family and friends are invited.

Memorials may be made to Neighbors Table, in care of: All Saints Episcopal Church, 501 S. Phoenix, Russellville, Arkansas 72801.

Online guestbook and condolences available at www.shinnfuneral.com.