- Date Of Birth: December 22, 1962
- Date Of Death: June 15, 2014
- State: California
Mrs. Cole peacefully passed away at her residence. She is the wife of Mr. Greg Cole and the mother of Shaleka Wilkins-Cole and Gregory Cole, Jr.
Viewing is Thursday, June 26th, 2014 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Mortuary.
The Wonderful Life of Woody
Marissa Antonia Cole was born December 22, 1962 in Groton, Connecticut. She was the youngest of 6 children born to Anthony and Vivian Vaughn, younger sister to Mario, Marcella, Maria, Marlena and Marguerite. The Vaughn family moved to San Diego, California when Marissa was 6 years old. As a youth, she was ambitious and encouraging. Her sister Marcella had early endeavors as a seamstress; her “creations” for her sister included lots of high lace collars and lopsided buttonholes. Yet, Marissa wore those “creations” proudly – even to school. She was part of the track team and demonstrated early on a competitive spirit with a love for sports. Marissa also had a few after school boxing matches due to her strong commitment to protect and defend herself and the people she loved. At the age of 12, Marissa’s beauty and elegance shined as she pursued modeling classes. She modeled in a number of fashion show events throughout San Diego with a fierce runway walk. The diva in Marissa followed her through life as she was never shy to give others fashion advice. Marissa became a skilled and talented seamstress, using her creative skills for Halloween costumes and unique outfits for special events. Marissa was sharp, extremely intelligent, and efficient. She studied Business Administration at San Diego City College. At the age of 20, Marissa entered the legal field and became very passionate and proficient as a legal secretary for 24 years. She was a very well known and respected paralegal in her field.
Her skills were further enhanced by the endless pro-bono work she did as a self-taught attorney. She helped many people through legal struggles and could hardly be distinguished from the best high paid lawyers – all for free with a caring and compassionate heart.
In 1979, Marissa had her first-born child, Shaleka Raquel Wilkins-Cole. Her strength and integrity drove her to be successful as a single mother until she met her soulmate and partner in crime, Gregory Anthony Cole. He soon gave her the nickname “Woody” after the cartoon character Woody the Woodpecker. Gregory and Marissa married in October of 1985 and accomplished many things as an impenetrable team. In 1987, their son Gregory Anthony Cole Jr. was born. They loved and supported their children in all their endeavors and inspired them with strong family values. They never missed a baseball or football game even if it took place in another state. The Coles’ loving and encouraging spirits attracted many “inherited” children. Many of Shaleka and Gregory Jr.’s friends found comfort and solace in their home. From spaghetti nights to pancake breakfasts, Marissa helped raise and encourage many kids who will all miss her as a mentor, motivator, and second mother who always had their backs and best interest in mind. On June 15, 2014, Marissa joined her father and mother, Anthony and Vivian Vaughn, in the gates of heaven. Those she leaves to celebrate her life and her love include her husband Gregory Cole, two children Shaleka and Gregory Jr. (Melissa), three grandpuppies Cairo, Mia and Tech, one brother Mario, four sisters Marcella, Maria, Marlena and Marguerite, a host of nieces and nephews, and MANY loved ones who will all miss her dearly and keep her spirit alive in their hearts.
