Clifford Cole

Clifford Cole, 85, of Hannibal Community, Erath County, passed away peacefully at his home on June 4, 2026. Born on August 7, 1940, in Erath County, Texas, to Leola Mae Wylie Cole and C.C. Cole, Clifford lived a life defined by faith, family, service, and hard work. After attending college for a short time, he proudly enlisted in the United States Navy and served his country with honor. 

Following his military service, Clifford worked as a Process Technician for Exxon for 30 years. He was known for his strong work ethic, dedication, and commitment to providing for his family. 

On July 21, 1963, Clifford married the love of his life, Verlee Newman Cole. Together they shared 62 years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, family, and love. 

Clifford was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He loved the Lord and was a faithful member of the Huckabay Church of Christ. He found joy in the simple blessings of life and especially enjoyed traveling with Verlee in their camper, making cherished memories together along the way. Whether tending to his cows, spending time outdoors hunting and fishing, or gathering with family, Clifford was happiest surrounded by the people and places he loved most. His wisdom, unwavering faith, and kind spirit left a lasting impact on all who knew him. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Verlee Cole; his children, Cindy Lightford, Kevin Cole and wife Michelle, and Clint Cole; his brother, Cary Cole; and his sister, Cathy McGahey. 

He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jonn Blake Chambers; Lauren Dunlap and husband, Tyler; Cassie Vickers and husband, Sam; Cade Cole and wife; Danie Cole; Caroline De La Cerda and husband, Brandon; Chloe Cole; and Carrissa Cole; as well as six great-grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leola Mae Wylie Cole and C.C. Cole, and brother Carrol Dennis Cole. 

Visitation will be held Sunday, June 7th, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Stephenville Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held Monday, June 8th at 2:00 p.m. at New Gordon Cemetery in Gordon, Texas.

Clifford will be remembered as a faithful Christian, proud Navy veteran, devoted husband and father, loving Papa, and a true cowboy at heart. He found his greatest joy in his faith, his family, and the life he built in Erath County. While his family mourns his passing, they find comfort in knowing he is now home with his Lord and Savior. His legacy of faith, love, hard work, and devotion to family will live on for generations to come.