Lorraine (Lori) Marie Cole, 61, of Cullman, Alabama, passed away on June 15, 2026. Born January 25, 1965, in Alabama, Lori was a lifelong daughter of Cullman, graduating from Cullman High School in 1983.
Lori’s early years were shaped by a deep devotion to family and a spirit of discovery. She and her mother, Jan, shared a love of travel that carried them across the world, yet they returned again and again to Gulf Shores—where they made a tradition of reserving the exact same condo each time, a small ritual that reflected both Lori’s thoughtful nature and the steady loyalty that defined her life.
With quiet determination and a strong work ethic, Lori pursued an education that matched her calling to serve others. She attended the University of North Alabama for her basic education, then Auburn University for nursing, and later earned her master’s in anesthesiology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. A proud Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, she found genuine purpose in her work and in helping people, following in her mother’s footsteps and making Jan incredibly proud.
Those who knew Lori will remember not only her competence, but the gentle wisdom she carried into everyday life. She had an extraordinary memory—recalling dates, numbers, and times with remarkable clarity—and she was an eager seeker of information. In conversation, she was often the first to look something up, quickly becoming well-informed and generously sharing what she learned. Her humor, steady resilience, and kind-hearted presence brought comfort in ways that were often understated, yet deeply felt.
Lori’s love was steadfast and selfless. She devoted her life to her mother and grandmother, who were the focus of her heart and home. The bond between Lori and Jan was marked by profound affection and mutual devotion. She was also a devoted friend to Mike Gandy, her best friend of over 30 years; theirs was a friendship defined by unwavering loyalty—ready to act at any hour, without hesitation, whenever the other was in need.
True to her nature, Lori found joy in being a quiet helping hand. She gave freely, asked nothing in return, and preferred no public recognition for her good deeds. In the lives she touched—through family, friendship, and service—she leaves a legacy of generosity, gentleness, and enduring love. Lori held a deep love for her church and found a family through friends within the sacred walls. She loved and was loved deeply by her community and will be greatly missed during Sunday prayers.
Lori is preceded in death by her grandmother, Vera Davis; mother, Jan Cole; and uncle, Charles Davis.
She is survived by her cousins, Sandra Armistead (Al) and Rhonda Dewalt (Gregg), as well as many other loving cousins across the nation.
