Harmon Bennett Cole

Harmon Bennett Cole, 87, passed away on March 15, 2024 at his home in White Oak surrounded by his family. Born on April 25, 1936 in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Harmon lived a life marked by dedication, humor, and profound faith.

Harmon leaves behind his beloved wife, Mavis Magee Cole, with whom he spent 63 years of unwavering love and companionship. Also left to cherish his memory are his best friend and brother-in-law Steve Rhoads, sister Martha Gary, daughter Kelly Thomas and her husband Mark, granddaughter, Haley Zillman, her husband Justin, and their daughter Emma Grace. Harmon's love extended to his foster son, J.D. Sellers, his wife Regina, and their children and grandchildren, who became an integral part of his family. He leaves behind numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Stuart and Pearlie Cole, his sister Lucy Rhoads, his brothers Clarence, Claude, Glen, Virgil, Ray and James, his grandson Joshua Cole Thomas, and his niece Suzan Rhoads.

Harmon proudly served his country as an Instrument Repairman with the 11th Aeromedical Squad in the Air Force. Following his military service, he married, and he and Mavis moved from Dallas to East Texas and finally to Lake Jackson where he began working at Dow Chemical Company. He furthered his education at Brazosport College, where he studied to become an electrician. His career as an Industrial Electrician took him back to East Texas where he worked for Lebus Manufacturing, Norris Cylinders, and Amega Systems. His career was marked by diligence and a strong work ethic, traits that earned him the respect of his colleagues. After finally retiring at age 79, he spent his days mowing yards, gardening, creating projects on his laser router, spending time with his family and friends, and serving at his church.

Those who knew Harmon best would describe him as a strong Christian full of wisdom and humor. His faith in God and trust in his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was the cornerstone of his existence, guiding him throughout his life. Harmon's sense of humor was infectious; he had a knack for making others laugh with his quick wit.

Harmon's legacy is one of love, laughter, and a life well-lived. He will be remembered for the way he cared for his family, the guidance he provided to those around him, and the laughter he shared with everyone he met. His impact will continue to be felt through the memories he leaves behind and the lives he has touched.

A Life Celebration Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. in The Cammack Family Chapel of Welch Funeral Home. A time of Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Welch Funeral Home in Longview, Texas.

The family would like to thank AccentCare Hospice for their care at the end of his life, and Premier Home Health, especially Vera, Jarrad, Courtney and Holly, for the years of wonderful care that he received. The family would also like to thank Dr. Vahdat and his team at Christus Cardiology whose exceptional care made it possible for Harmon to live a quality life in his final years.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the building fund at his church of which he was a founding member, Breakthru Church in Longview, Texas.