VA HJR57

Earl Cole of Whitewood, Buchanan County, died on July 25, 2025, and is honored by the Virginia General Assembly for his contributions as a faith leader, businessman, and civic figure

Founded The Shelter Free Will Baptist Church in Whitewood in 1974 and began preaching at age 11, earning the nickname "the boy preacher"

Built multiple successful businesses including a coal trucking company, a rest home for elderly and disabled adults, and The Golden Coach steak house chain with five locations

Contributed to local civic discourse as founder and publisher of The Voice newspaper and longtime host of the radio show County Talk in Buchanan and Tazewell Counties

Survived by his wife of 60 years, three children (Christine, Harold, and Hayden), and extended family; preceded in death by his son Ricky