Thomas R. Cole, Sr.

Obituary of Thomas R. Cole, Sr.

Of Braddock and  Turtle Creek, age 52, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.

Tom was the beloved husband of Christina A. (Jackson) Cole for 12 years.

He was the loving and proud father of his 10 children:  Thomas R. Cole, Jr., Shaelyn Cole, Zion Jackson, Trinity Jackson, Chance Cole, Journey Cole, Mercy Cole, Kyon Cole, Aron Cole and Eternity Cole.

Tom was the cherished grandfather of J’son McFarley, Thomas R. Cole, III, Kehlani Felder and Raheem Felder.

Tom was the dear son of Gloria Nadine Cole and the late Edward “Bunny” Allen.

He is survived by his siblings, Amina Massey, Tanya Davidson, Dawn Gardner, Calvin Coleman, Terrence Thomas, Brenda Woods, Duane Coleman, Dolores Woods and Matthew Johnson.

He is also survived by nieces, nephews and cousins.

Tom was a 1992 graduate of Northgate High School where he was the captain of the wrestling team.

Tom spent many years building a respected career as a district manager for Burger King, and other fast food franchises.  After years of dedicated service in that role, he became co-owner with his son, Tom, of Tacl Convenience Store in Clairton, where he continued to bring his experience and energy.  Prior to starting Tacl, Tom owned Cole Breeze Communications.

For many years, Tom umpired baseball games for community leagues of all ages as well as high school contests, where he was known for his fairness and knowledge of the game.

Outside of work and community involvement, Tom enjoyed life’s simple pleasures and embraced them fully.  He liked playing poker and took great enjoyment in driving his Lexus.  He had a taste for adventure and especially loved traveling with Christina.  Together, they shared memorable trips to beaches, the Poconos, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic, where they enjoyed time away and the beauty of each destination.  Tom also cherished evenings out with Christina, especially when they could share a good meal at a favorite restaurant.

Friends are welcome on Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at Patrick T. Lanigan Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., Turtle Creek / Monroeville Chapel, 1111 Monroeville Ave., Turtle Creek, 412-823-9350 where a Funeral Service will be held at 12 noon.

Tom will be laid to rest in Penn Lincoln Cemetery.