Cynthia Cole

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Cynthia Cole, who was called to her heavenly home on September 15, 2026, in the comforting presence of her family at Lightways Joliet Hospice. Born on August 1, 1961, in Joliet, Illinois, Cynthia was a cherished daughter of James E. Cole and Clara M. McFarland. Cynthia’s life was a testament to love, compassion, and selflessness. She graduated from Lockport High School and spent her professional career as a dedicated caseworker at the Will County Center for Community Concerns in Joliet. Her role there was not merely a job but a calling, as she took immense pride in extending a helping hand to those in need. After retiring, Cynthia embraced her most treasured role as a full-time grandmother. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Known for her culinary skills, Cynthia was the queen of barbecuing, always eager to gather her family and friends to enjoy good food and great company. Her joy in exploring different restaurants and sharing these experiences with her grandchildren was a highlight of her life. Cynthia's passing reunites her with her late parents, James and Clara, and her siblings, Lucille Brown, Bonita Ward, Henry Cole, Ricky Cole, and Ronald Cole. The thought of their joyous reunion, filled with laughter, good food, and card games, brings comfort to those who loved her. Her legacy lives on through her beloved children and grandchildren. She is survived by her son, Brandon Cole of Lockport, IL, and her daughter, Kandise (Tajuan) Beard of Channahon, IL. Cynthia's nurturing spirit will be remembered by her grandchildren: Robert A. Jelks, Caden Cole, Kamden Beard, Tajuan Beard Jr., Tashaun Beard, Malachi Stallworth, Jelanique Brown, and Jayden Diaz. Her brothers, Russell Cole, Michael (Sheila) Cole, Robert (Brenda) Smith Jr., Lonnie Smith, and Kenneth Ewell, and her sisters, Geralyn (Walter) Clayborn, Wanda Jones, Denise Cole, and Tracy Austin, will continue to hold her memory close to their hearts. A celebration of Cynthia’s life will be held on September 23, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the Japanese Garden, located at 6401 S Stony Island Ave, Chicago, IL. Her family invites all who knew her to join in honoring her memory and sharing stories of the love and laughter she spread throughout her life. Cynthia’s radiant, candid personality will be deeply missed by all, including her birthday twin, Cherie Walters-Sims, and her dear friend, Winifred Hill. Her family extends their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to a charity of your choice in Cynthia’s honor. May Cynthia's soul rest in eternal peace, and may her memory be a guiding light to her family and friends.