Thurman “Lee” Cole, Jr., of Fort Mill SC passed away Friday, February 20, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born on April 30, 1936, in Barnardsville NC, to his parents, Thurman Lee Cole, Sr. and Parris Gillis Cole.
Lee is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Sharon Clarke Cole; his stepchildren, Leslie Adams Montgomery (Scott) of Fort Mill SC, Stuart Clarke Thompson (Mary Ellen) of Irmo SC: grandchildren, Jessica Blessike (Jay), Nicholas Adams, Harrison Montgomery, Emily Williams (Walker), Stuart Thompson (Kerrington), Fielding Robinson, Mary Leila Robinson, Luther Robinson; great grandchildren Jalen Blessike, Ashton Blessike, Hattie Williams, Whit Thompson; brothers, Roy Cole and Glenn Cole (Nancy) of Weaverville NC and nieces and nephews Daniel Cole (Wendy), Kimberly Hammaker (Jeff), Mark Cole (Mandy) and Katrina Cope (Matthew).
He was preceded in death by his parents and his two precious daughters, Donna Cole Shaffer and Lisa Cole.
Lee, affectionately known as “Ba” by his grandchildren and family, was a devoted husband, brother, father and grandfather. He was a true gentleman known for his kind and gentle nature. His quiet generosity and genuine care for others were felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
After graduating from high school, Lee joined the United States Air Force, where he served a combined 27 years between active duty and the reserves. He went on to attend Southeast Missouri State University before beginning a long and successful career in the automobile industry. Over the years, Lee managed and owned dealerships in Memphis, TN and Rock Hill, SC. He was a distinguished member of the prestigious NADA Nissan 20 Group, which recognized the top 20 dealers nationwide. In addition to his dealership work, he also owned and operated a car rental franchise in Charlotte, NC.
A special thank-you to the caregivers at Highpoint at Fort Mill. Lee was deeply appreciative of their care and kindness and often reminded his family of how much they meant to him.
A celebration of his life will be held at 2pm Saturday, February 28 at Unity Presbyterian Church, 303 Tom Hall St, Fort Mill SC immediately followed by a reception in the church’s Historic Sanctuary.
The service will be live streamed for those unable to attend in person.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Lee’s name to Unity Presbyterian Church Youth Fund.