McKinney - Nancy Elaine Cole, 79, of McKinney, TX passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026 in Gainesville, TX. She was born on March 4, 1947, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Nancy was a devoted wife to her husband, Benjamin Cole, whom she married on August 3, 1979. Together, they built a life full of adventure, companionship, and unwavering love. Nancy was deeply rooted in her Christian faith and was an active member of the Protestant church, where she formed lasting friendships and participated in many meaningful church trips throughout the years.

She had a passion for travel and especially enjoyed exploring the open road on their GoldWing motorcycle with Ben. Their journeys took them on unforgettable adventures, including white water rafting in Colorado and work trips with Ben where they would camp all along the way. Nancy also had a special place in her heart for dogs. Over the years, she and Ben lovingly cared for many, including their golden retrievers, King and Lady, and later Jake and Razzie, who brought them immense joy.

Nancy is survived by foster brothers Thomas and Richard Fink of Pennsylvania; Eugene and Tracey Meyer of Newman, Georgia; Gary and Pam Meyer of Louisville, Kentucky; Roger and Brandy Meyer of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; and Lena Gibson of Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Her mother-in-law, Sylvia Maxine Cole of Whitesboro, Texas; her brother-in-law Bobby Cole and wife Rhonda of Sadler, Texas; her sister-in-law Veronica Ashley and husband Jeffrey of Pottsboro, Texas.

She also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews: William and his wife Sharon Harper of Keene, Texas; Daniel Harper of Whitesboro, Texas; Jesse and his wife Desirae Cole of Krugerville, Texas; Ashley and her husband Jimmy Toler of Pueblo West, Colorado; Kevin Cole of Sadler, Texas; Kacie and her husband Chris Attaway of Sanger, Texas; Kassidi and her husband Tyler of Piedmont, Oklahoma; Kaitlyn and her husband Riley of Derby, Kansas; McKenzie Ashley of Bulverde, Texas; Amie Jordan and her husband Cody Crawford of Keller, Texas; Julie Cummings of Tecumseh, Oklahoma; Chasity Rainey of Gainesville, Texas; and Michael Whittington of Gainesville, Texas, along with numerous grand-nieces, grand-nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Benjamin Cole; parents, Richard and Elizabeth Fink; her sister, Fern Meyer; her brothers-in-law, Stephen Cole and Bill Harper.
Pallbearers will be Jeff Ashley, Chris Attaway, Jesse Cole, Kevin Cole, Daniel Harper, William Harper, and Levi Henry. Honorary pallbearer will be Bobby Cole.
The family will receive friends at Geo. J. Carroll & Son Funeral Home in Gainesville, Texas, on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 1:00 PM, with a graveside service to follow at 3:00 PM at Bolivar Cemetery, officiated by Pastor Larry Kremling.


Memorial contributions in honor of Mrs. Cole may be made to Wounded Warriors or a charity of your choice.

Nancy will be remembered for her strong faith, her adventurous spirit, and the deep love she shared with her family and friends. She will be greatly missed and forever cherished.