James passed away unexpectedly at his home in Tewksbury on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.  He was 75 years of age.  Born and raised in Chelsea, James was the son of the late Edward and Marie (LePore) Cole.  He attended Chelsea public schools and he was well known for being an exceptional athlete, playing on all of the Chelsea sports teams.  Jim was a late US Army Veteran, serving at the end of the Vietnam era.  He dedicated a number of years at the Chelsea DPW, before taking employment at the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority, maintaining the tunnels.  Jim was a long time Chelsea resident before taking residence in Tewksbury for the last 10 years.  He had a passion for cooking and took pride in knowing he served the best meatballs around. He loved cooking but not more than his grandchildren.  His grandchildren were Jim's prized possessions; he loved being a grandfather and being involved in their lives.  Jim was also very proud of his hard work in maintaining his sobriety and the dedication he put into AA.  He took pride in being able to mentor and support those in need.  He will be forever cherished by all who loved him.

Jim is the husband of Denise (Countie) Cole of North Reading.  Devoted father of Dawn M. Collins and her husband Kerry of Rowley, James W. Cole, Jr. and his wife Rosa of Tewksbury and Krista M. Cole, also of Tewksbury.  Dear brother of Edward Cole, Jr. and his wife Janet of Chelsea, Thomas "Bucky" Cole and his wife Carol of Saugus, Patsy Pistone of Revere.  Jim was the cherished grandfather of Kyle, Kayla, James, Jordyn, Joseph, Julianna and Sophia.  He was also lovingly survived by many nieces and nephews.

FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS:  Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend visiting hours at the Carafa Family Funeral Home, 389 Washington Ave., Chelsea, on Wednesday July 16, 2025, from 4-8 P.M.    Funeral Services will begin in the Funeral Home on Thursday, July 17 at 9:00 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Grace Church, 59 Nichols St. Chelsea, at 10:00 A.M.  Interment Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett.

We encourage family and friends to offer condolences at this time by means of the online guest book or to send a personalized sympathy card.