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Gary Duane Cole, 77, of Morgantown, passed away Monday, August 10, 2026, in his residence, surrounded by his family.
He was born July 2, 1949, in Beckley, a son of the late Nathan Paul and Bonnie Marie Mills Cole.
Gary lived his life quietly, with strength, dedication, and a deep love for his family.
A graduate of Stoco High School, he served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He proudly served in what is known as the Brown Water Navy.
Following his military service, Gary returned home and began working in the coal mines. While working, he continued his education and earned two degrees from Beckley College.
His years of experience and knowledge in the mining industry eventually led him to a career as a federal mine inspector with the Federal Mine Safety and Health Administration, from which he retired.
Away from work, Gary found happiness in the simple things that meant the most to him. He enjoyed hunting and treasured the time he spent at the family cabin in Pocahontas County, which he helped build. The cabin became a special place where he could enjoy the outdoors, family, and the quiet surroundings he appreciated so much. Gary also enjoyed baseball and softball and spent a number of years coaching girls softball, sharing his time and knowledge of the game with others.
Gary was a private man who never sought attention or recognition. He cared deeply for those closest to him, and much of what mattered most to him could be seen not in what he said, but in how he lived -- working hard, providing for his family, serving his country, and being there for the people he loved.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Deborah "Debby" Ann Ruble Cole; two sons, Patrick Nathaniel Cole of Washington, D.C., and Nathan Garrick Cole of Morgantown; his two grandchildren, Kelly Nicole Sidwell of Morgantown and Zachery Ryan Sidwell of Thornville, Ohio; two great- grandchildren, Cole and Mason; sister-in-law, Patty Mertz and husband Michael of Beckley; and niece, Marcie Cole of Lexington, Ky.
In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by his daughter, Deborah "Dee Dee" Michelle Cole; two brothers, Jesse Cole and Timothy Cole; and one sister, Marcia Raines.
Gary will be laid to rest near his daughter, Dee Dee, at Blue Ridge Cemetery in Beckley--a quiet resting place where they will be together once again.
Those who knew Gary will remember a man who valued family, hard work, service, and the peaceful moments in life. Though he preferred to keep much of himself private, the life he built and the people he loved speak for him.
Condolences may be made to the family at www.davisfuneralhomewv.com Davis Funeral Home and Onsite Crematory is handling the cremation arrangements and is honored to serve the Cole family.