Peggy Jean Cole

Peggy Jean Cole, age 85, of Jolo, West Virginia, drew her first breath in heaven on Monday, September 14, 2026. Peggy entered this world on April 20, 1941, in Newhall, West Virginia, as the cherished daughter of the late George Washington Honaker and Rebecca Vance Honaker. It was in this beautiful region that she built a life defined by faith, creativity, and an endless capacity to love. Peggy married the love of her life and true soulmate, Riley R.C. Cole. Their bond was a beautiful testament to devotion; you very rarely saw one without the other. Together, they walked hand-in-hand through life's blessings and challenges. Peggy took profound joy in her family and deeply loved her roles as a wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend. A lady of exceptional talents, Peggy filled the world around her with sweetness and beauty. She was an amazing baker and wedding cake maker, often stepping in as a wedding designer and caterer to make another's special day perfect. People often requested her to make red velvet cakes and peanut butter candy and other delicious treats. For many years, she also helped manage the grocery store she and R.C. owned in Whitewood. Her business philosophy was guided entirely by her faith. It was well known that credit at the store was freely offered to anyone in need, given with the quiet understanding that only a few would ever be able to pay it back. Peggy’s soul was that of an artist. She possessed an incredible gift for painting and shared her passion by teaching art classes at Southwest Virginia Community College and Twin Valley High School. Her remarkable talent was sought after by many, leading to numerous commissions for portraits, murals, and lasting works of art that continue to brighten the community. Above all, Peggy was defined by her deeply ingrained belief in God. A long-time faithful member of the Oak Grove Church of Christ, she lived out the gospel every single day. She always had a warm smile, a welcoming spirit, and a loving heart. Whenever someone was struggling, Peggy was there to offer a helping hand along with fervent, heartfelt prayer. She never voiced a harsh word, held a bad thought, or looked down upon another human being. She was a true woman of Proverbs 31—a rare jewel and a precious diamond found in a valley of coal. Peggy is now peacefully reunited in glory with her parents; her beloved husband, Riley R.C. Cole; her sisters, Pearlie Arnette, Joann Rowe, and Anna Mae Clark; and her brother, George Honaker. Survivors are: Daughters: Peggy Ann Cole Payne and husband, David of Jolo, WV Linda Adams and husband, David of Oakwood, VA Pamela Arrington and husband, Richard of Warrenton, VA Son: Joshua Cole and wife, Michelle of Kingsport, TN Sister: Frances Wimmer of Jolo, WV Brother: Arvil Ray “Boo” Honaker of Jolo, WV Grandchildren: Tyler Adams and Paula; Riley Arrington and wife, Alexandria; Lindsey Arrington and husband, Anthony Overfield; Shannon Adams and wife, Makynzee; and Kaylee Reedy Great Grandchildren: Knox Adams and Jeff Castle Special Niece and Caregiver: Shelia Cole Several Nieces and Nephews also survive. Funeral services for Peggy Jean Cole will be conducted Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 2pm at the Hurst-Scott Funeral Chapel in Richlands, Virginia with the Rev. Charlie Cooper and Rev. Hobart Kennedy officiating. Burial will take place at Cole’s Landing on White Mountain. Pallbearers will be: Joshua Cole, David Adams, Richard Arrington, David Payne, Tyler Adams, Riley Arrington, Shannon Adams and Anthony Overfield. Honorary Pallbearers will be: David Cole, Matthew Cole, and Brian Beavers. Friends may visit with the family on Friday evening from 6pm until 9pm at the Hurst-Scott Funeral Home in Richlands, Virginia. Hurst-Scott Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements and those wishing to express their sympathy, share a favorite memory, or leave online condolences for the family may do so by visiting www.hurstscottfuneralhomes.com

Peggy Jean Cole

April 20, 1941 - September 14, 2026