Wilby Jean (Garris) Cole

Wilby Jean Garris Cole, 78, of Kinston passed away Monday, May 11, 2020 at her daughter's home. She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy Ivey and Wilby Heath Garris; husband, Roland “John” Cole of 34 years; brothers, James Monroe Garris, Carlie Ray Garris, Roy Lee Garris, Ivey Earl Garris and David Garris; sister, Betty Garris Jones and great-grandson, Jayce Odom.

Wilby worked as a technician with Electrolux. She retired after 25 years of service. She was known for always having a big smile on her face, no matter what was going on around her she sported that smile. She loved watching soap operas and was an avid reader of mystery and romance novels, but her favorite past time of all was spending time with her family.

Wilby is survived by her daughter, Carolyn Cole Antwine and husband Lyn; son, Rodney Cole and wife Connie; grandchildren, Ashley Cole Odom, Tyler Lyn Antwine and Cole McKinley Antwine; great-grandchild, Haidyn Odom; brothers, Jimmy Garris and wife Lucine and Johnie Garris; special sisters-in-law, Juanita Driver and Bernice Hill; many special nieces and nephews and special friend, Sissy Coombs.

A graveside service will be held Friday, May 15, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Westview Cemetery.

The family appreciates the care and compassion shown by Katie Fowler, Jessica Mitchell and Frank Goin from 3HC Hospice. 

The family will receive friends at the home of her daughter, Carolyn. 2791 Faulkner Road, Kinston, NC 28501.