Judy Howard Cole

Judy Howard Cole, age 75, passed away on July 17. 2026 surrounded by family.

Judy was born on May 12, 1951, in Cleveland, Georgia to Jack and Lois Howard. Judy married young and had two children, Deana and David Usher. Family always came first for Judy, and when she wasn't with family or friends, she worked in various local businesses including Babyland General, Truett-McConnell College, and GlobalTech Industries. Judy lived in Cleveland for 50 years and shared her warmth, strength, and faith with those who were lucky enough to know her.

In 2001, Judy moved to Alabama and met Tommy Cole through a group of Bunko friends. They married in 2002, and they shared 24 wonderful years together with their blended families. Judy loved Tommy's children and grandchildren as if they were her own, and she always made sure they knew she cared for them.

Judy was incredibly warm and nurturing to all who knew her, whether they knew her as Judy, Nonnie, or Juju. She saw the best in everyone and wanted the best for everyone. Her family and friends were her priority, and she was always available for a hug, encouragement, or phone call; her family and friends outside of Alabama cherished her cards and phone calls. Judy was an avid prayer warrior who asked for blessings for everyone in her life.

Judy is survived by her husband, Tommy Cole, Calera, AL; her daughter Deana Cox and son-in-law Israel, Gulfport, MS; her son David Usher and daughter-in-law Kelli, Cleveland, GA; her "bonus daughter" Janet Kutsch and son-in-law David, Calera, AL; her "bonus son" Dennis Cole and daughter-in-law Brandy, Pensacola, FL; her daughter-in-law Tiffany Wasman, McCalla, AL; her sister Cindy Stoddard and brother-in-law Howard, Cleveland, GA; brothers-and sisters-in law Ronny and Vickie Cole, Bessemer, AL, and Kenny and Donna Cole, Columbiana, AL; and sister-in-law Cheryl Cole, Trussville, AL. She adored her grandchildren Abby and Heather; Emily and Jake; Noah and Emma; Taylor and Macie; Madison and Brad; Tyson, Brooklyn, SJ, and Dylan; god-daughter Jessamine Cantey and Scott; her six great-grandchildren (and one on the way!), and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents Lois and Jack Howard, her niece Leslie Shea Autry, her granddaughter Bayli Carlee, and her brothers-in-law Jimmy Cole and Billy Cole.

Judy cherished her family and was a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother. and friend to all. and to remember her is a blessing.

Funeral services will be held on August 8 at 11 a.m. at Arnold's Chapel UMC in Bessemer. Alabama.

This obit is being published as a courtesy to the family by Barrett Funeral Home.