Obituary of Leonard Mack Cole

Leonard Mack Cole, 91, of Bryson City, passed away on March 16th, 2023, at Memorial Mission Hospital in Asheville, North Carolina. Leonard was born in Swain County, North Carolina on June 15th, 1931 to John C. Cole Sr. and Emeline Woody Cole. Leonard proudly served his country in the Army during the Korean War. Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, John and Emeline; his wife Marie Cole; and his siblings, Elizabeth, Stella (died in infancy), Eugene, Robert, JC, and Keith. Leonard is survived by his stepdaughter Juanita Taylor Curtis and husband Darrell; sister Christine Cole Proctor and many beloved grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Leonard was a true Son of the Smokies, loving and living in the mountains of his ancestors his whole life. He enjoyed camping, hunting, and fishing. He tended the Cole family farm and garden for decades, often stating that he loved to see things grow. The family will receive friends at Crisp Funeral Home in. Bryson City between 1pm and 2pm on Sunday, March 19th. A graveside memorial service will follow at Lauada Cemetery at 2:30pm. Leonard will be laid to rest with his family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Lauada Cemetery and sent to 1166 Franklin Grove Church Road, Bryson City 28713.