Lawrence Russell Cole, Jr. (Ret. Lt. WFD)

Lawrence Russell Cole, Jr. (Ret. Lt., WFD), 79, of Exeter, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, October 20, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, after a brief but brave battle with cancer. He was the beloved husband of Myrna R. (Rojas) Cole.

Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Lawrence R. Cole Sr. and Dorothy G. (Swanzie) Cole.

Lawrence proudly served the Warwick Fire Department for 17 years, rising to the rank of Lieutenant, before disability retirement in 1991. He was a dedicated member of the Warwick Fire Fighters Association and the Chestnut Hill Baptist Church, and his commitment to helping others was evident in both his career and his daily life.

After retiring from the fire service, Lawrence returned to school and earned an associate’s degree, Magna Cum Laude, in Chemistry — a testament to his lifelong love of learning. He was always curious, always reading, and always striving to better himself. He excelled at everything he put his mind to.

His claim to fame, as he would proudly admit with a grin, was his vast wealth of “useless knowledge” — a never-ending source of facts, trivia, and wisdom that entertained and amazed those around him. He was a true perfectionist in all that he did, from his studies to his many hands- on projects. Over the years, he perfected multiple homes for his family, each one crafted with care, pride, and meticulous attention to detail. He took deep satisfaction in doing things the right way.

Lawrence was the pillar of his family — a man of unwavering integrity, strength, and sharp wit. His smile, always accompanied by a twinkle in his eye, could light up any room. His humor, warmth, and steady presence will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

In addition to his devoted wife, Myrna, he leaves behind his four daughters: Tracy Deskins of Virginia, Kristine Cole-Gadbois of Florida, Deborah Rasmussen of Wakefield, and Kristine Sisson (Michael) of Exeter. He is also survived by his loving sister, Ann Melino (Mickey) of Coventry; eight cherished grandchildren; and four adored great-grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to attend his Visitation on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00AM at The Urquhart-Murphy Funeral Home, 800 Greenwich Avenue, Warwick. The Funeral Service will be held at 11:00AM. Interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Coventry.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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