COLE, James A. (Jim)

Vining Funeral Home, Safford, Arizona James A. Cole July 21, 1927 ~ May 22, 2013 James A. Cole or “Jim” as he was known by all, age 85, of Safford, decided on his terms it was time to say “goodbye” and move on to blue skies and open pastures. Jim was the youngest of five children, born in Arkansas and migrated to Safford when he was seven years old. As a young man his favorite subject in school was football. Once football became a television sport he decided to get serious and graduated from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California. Jim served in the United States Navy and was a California Highway Patrolman for 30 years, retiring as a Captain of the Placerville California Office. Jim and Louise were happy to return to Safford in 1999 and reunited with their school friends and new acquaintances. Jim is survived by: his loving wife of 64 years, Louise Cole; his son Michael Cole; a daughter, Lisa Hayes; grandsons, Justin Cole (Lori) and Weston Hayes (Sarah); and very proud of his three great-grandsons, Jacob Cole, Luke Cole and Kiernan Hayes; a nephew, Larry Ledbetter (Jan); and nieces, Karen Silver and Peggy Stewart. Jim was preceded in death by: his parents, Aaron and Vertie Cole; his sisters, Geri and Atha; and his brother, Leon.