Furman Fletcher Cole

Furman Fletcher Cole, 64, of Charleston, South Carolina, husband of Martha McPherson Cole, entered into eternal rest Thursday, August 30, 2012. A Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, September 5, 2012, at St. Michael's Episcopal Church, 71 Broad Street at 11:00 a.m. Interment, Old St. Andrew's Parish Episcopal Churchyard. The family will receive friends Tuesday between 5:00 and 7:00 p.m. at the Carolina Yacht Club.

Mr. Cole was born October 27, 1947 in Charleston, South Carolina, son of Roy Francois Cole and Elizabeth Fletcher Cole. As children and young adults, he and his twin brother, Roy, were avid sailors, often competing in boats built by their father. After serving in the Navy, he received a BA in History from The Citadel in 1973. The brothers went on to establish R. F. Cole, Inc./Brewer's Paint Center where Furman was the Vice-President/Secretary/Treasurer. The same boundless commitment he showed to his historic renovations of homes in Downtown Charleston and Yeamans Hall Club was also evident in his tireless dedication to his family and his community. He instilled the family tradition of sailing in his older daughter, supporting her competition in many national regattas. He and a small group of fathers went on to found Charleston Community Sailing so that all local children could have the opportunity to learn to sail. He later became an affable supporter of his younger daughter's equestrian competitions, always offering assistance and encouragement to everyone. He was selflessly devoted to his extended family, daughters, and wife of 38 years. He was a member of St. Michael's Episcopal Church, Society of Colonial Wars, Saint Andrews Society, Sons of the American Revolution, New England Society, The Charleston Club, and Carolina Yacht Club. He served as Vice President of The Agricultural Society and Chairman of the Board of Directors of The Star Gospel Mission. During his years with the Board, he helped implement many programs to ensure The Mission's continued ministry to formerly homeless men.

He is survived by his wife; two daughters, Elizabeth McPherson Cole of Boston, MA and Ellen Fletcher Cole of Charleston; brother, Roy F. Cole, Jr. (Patty) of Charleston; three nieces, Mary Elizabeth "MEB" Shue (Patrick), Laura B. Cole and Patricia Cole Ard (Mike).

Memorials may be made to Star Gospel Mission, 474 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29403 or to Old St. Andrew's Parish Episcopal Church, 2604 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC 29414.