Betty Ellen Cole, 86, passed away October 12, 2016 in Stanwood, WA. Betty was born May 24, 1930 in Bryson City, NC to John B. and Bertha 'Jenny' Sherrill and was one of twelve siblings – four brothers and seven sisters (Betty making twelve). She was Preceded in death by her parents; her first husband Robert Cole; her son Robert L Cole Jr; her brothers: Clarence, JB, Estes and Frank; her sisters: Anna, Irene and Vergie. She is survived by four sisters: MayBelle, Sally, Yvonne and Marie; her daughter Marilyn (Richard) Toland of Greensboro, NC; her daughter Debbie (James) Whitford of Marysville, WA; her daughter-in-law Linnea Cole of Lakewood, WA; grandchildren: Sandra Toland, John (MaryBeth) Cole, Richard (Jennifer) Toland, Jennifer Cole, Heather (Gabriel) Rael and Andy Cole. Great grandchildren: Alyssa, Aislin, Anastasia, Gillian and Mathew Toland; James, Katelin and Taylor Cole; Great great grandchildren: Annika and Maya. Betty also leaves behind her beloved dog ChinChin.
Betty had many hobbies that included quilting, crocheting, oil painting, gardening and canning what she harvested each year. She got great joy in sharing her harvest with family, friends and neighbors. For several years she sang with The Stilly Singers of Arlington, WA and enjoyed that very much.
Our family would like to thank all the wonderful staff and caregivers at Josephine Sunset Home for their support and compassion during this difficult time.
A graveside service will be held Monday October 24, 2016 at 10am at Anderson Cemetery, Stanwood, WA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Josephine Sunset Home in Stanwood.
Arrangements are under the care of Gilbertson Funeral Home, Stanwood, WA.