Barbara J. Cole

Barbara Jo Cole, 72, of Galesburg, died on Tuesday, April 16, 2019, 11:10 a.m., at Aperion North (formerly Rosewood), Galesburg. Barb was born on February 25, 1947, in Galesburg. She was the daughter of Joseph Edward and Jean Marie (Pratt) Lovett. She married David Alan Cole, Sr. on July 26, 1985 in Galesburg. Together they celebrated 34 years of marriage. Barb is survived by her husband, David; daughters, Carol Hill of Galesburg, and Amy Shumaker of Perry, Ga.; step-sons, Earl Cole of Missouri and David Cole, Jr. of Galesburg; brothers, Donald (Karen) Lovett of Oquawka, Ronald (Bunnie) Lovett of Columbia, S.C., and Danny Lee Lovett of East Moline; sisters, Judy Plasters of Litchfield, Rose Mary (Donald) Hanley of Galesburg, and Elizabeth (Scotty Patterson) Lovett of Alexis; eight grand children and two great-grandchildren. Barb was preceded in death by her parents; son-in-law, Bert Hill; sister, Karen Lovett; and two aunts. Barb graduated from Galesburg Schools. She worked as a CNA for the Galesburg Research Hospital for over twenty years. Barb loved to crochet, watch “Prince” movies and “Everyone Loves Raymond.” She participated in bowling leagues, loved to play cards, and was known as the “Skip Bo Queen.” She was a HUGE fan of Elvis Presley. She loved to gamble, especially on the “one armed bandit” slot machines. Barb loved to take trips to Las Vegas and Reno. Most of all, Barb loved to spend time with her family. Per Barb’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. A burial of cremated remains will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, April 19, 2019 at the Abingdon Cemetery. Pastor Darrell Grimm will officiate. Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements. Memorials may be donated to the family for a charity of their choosing.