Jerlyn "Jerry" Cole Obituary (1940 - 2026)

Jerlyn L. “Jerry” Cole Elmira, NY Passed away on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at the age of 85. Jerry was born November 20, 1940 in Elmira NY, daughter to the late John and Beaula Kelsey. She is survived by sons, John (Paula) Cole of Elmira, NY and Todd (Johnny) Cole of Concord, MA; grandchildren, Gabriella Cole, Christopher Hitchcock, Keyon Cole, and Amir Cole, her “grand-furbaby” Addy Mae, as well as many extended family members and friends Jerry retired from Hilliard Corporation as a clerk and typist. She also owned and operated her own shop where she built and sold dollhouses, and dollhouse furniture in Pine City, New York. She loved working in her gardens, and would grow her flowers and eat her son’s vegetables. She also enjoyed the hummingbirds that came and visited her many feeders in her backyard, and loved to listen to the music of Elvis Presley, Blake Shelton, Willie Nelson, and especially Jimmy Buffet. Jerry was also a NASCAR fan and loved cheering on Danica Patrick and Chase Elliot, loved the color purple, dark chocolate raspberry chocolates, and her angel collection. She had a very strong faith, didn’t pull any punches, had zero filter, and no tolerance for drama. She had high expectations that any task, no matter how big or small, would be done right or not at all. She will be missed dearly by her family and everyone who knew her. The family would like to extend their profound gratitude to the staff at CareFirst Hospice for their dedication and loving care of Jerry. The family welcomes your thoughts and prayers at this time, but a Celebration of Life will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make memorial contributions in her memory, please consider donating to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation or CareFirst NY.