Robert Lee Cole

FARMINGTON – Robert Lee Cole, Jr. of Farmington, passed into his eternal life on February 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving family at the age of 68. He was born July 26, 1957, in Farmington, MO,  the son of the late Juanita (Payne) Gibson and Ronald “Button” Gibson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Bryan Gibson.

Robert grew up in Park Hills and was a 1975 graduate of Central High School. He enlisted in the U. S. Army, where he proudly served in Korea in the infantry. After his honorable discharge from the military, he returned to Missouri, where he worked as a machinist at Williams Crusher in Bonne Terre, a maintenance worker at St. Joe Smelter in Herculaneum, and a machinist at Alumex Foils. His longest career was as a maintenance supervisor at Farmington Correctional Center, where he retired in 2019 after 20 years. An avid outdoorsman, Robert enjoyed hunting, fishing, and all sports. He loved living the country life, liked tractors and seeing vintage tractors at shows, and also enjoyed joyriding on motorcycles. His family was very special to him, and his granddaughter was the apple of his eye.

Survivors include his loving wife of 47 years, Ruthie (Nations) Cole; his children, Eric Cole, Kayla (Micheal) Barton, granddaughter, Aireca Barton, brother, Timmy Gibson, aunts, Minnie Bayless and Debbie Rawson; uncles, Larry Payne and Andrew “Sonny” (Donna) Payne; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

A memorial visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Esther Methodist Church, 501 Jefferson Street, Park Hills, Missouri 63601, beginning at 4 p.m., followed by a memorial service beginning at 6 p.m with Pastor Joe Hayes officiating. There will be military honors at 4:30. Share your condolences and memories at cozeanfuneralhome.com.