Frankie "Frank" Lee Cole

Mr. Frank L. Cole, 95, of Niceville, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2026.

Born to Elmur and Lyddia Cole, Frank lived a remarkable and fulfilling life. The son of a sharecropper, he learned early the values of hard work, perseverance, and determination. After graduating from high school, Frank attended Morris Brown College for two years, where he joined the football team and proudly played quarterback.

Frank later answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Air Force. During his distinguished 26-year military career, he served as an Airborne Communication System Support specialist and attained the rank of Master Sergeant. His tours of duty took him both stateside and abroad. It was during his time stationed in Germany that Frank met the love of his life, Gertrude Cole, beginning a beautiful marriage that would span 55 years.

Together, Frank and Gertrude built a loving family and raised six children: Arthur, Armon, John, Sandra, and Christina, and son, Dereck, who preceded him in death. His family continued to grow through three grandchildren, John, Austin, and Kirby, and one great-grandchild, Lucy. Frank treasured the blessing of his family and the legacy they represented.

Frank’s final military tour brought him to Niceville, Florida, where he eventually retired from the United States Air Force. Retirement, however, did not mean slowing down. Frank began a second career, spending 15 years as a Civil Service employee at Eglin Air Force Base. Through both his military and civilian careers, he devoted himself to serving his country and community with dedication and pride.

In Niceville, Frank also found a spiritual home at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church. He became a welcomed and cherished member of the church community, where he found particular joy and passion in participating in the music ministry and singing gospel music.

Frank leaves behind a legacy of service, faith, family, perseverance, and love. His life was a testament to the journey from humble beginnings to a life filled with purpose, accomplishment, and the love of family.

A Funeral Mass will be Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church in Niceville. Interment will follow at Heritage Gardens Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM. Rosary will be prayed at 7:30 PM.

May peace be with you, Frank. May your memory continue to live in the hearts of all who knew and loved.

Heritage Gardens Funeral Home of Niceville has been entrusted with the arrangements.

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