The Honorable Thomas E. Cole, 84, entered in to rest on Friday May 3, 2024 in St. Augustine, FL. He was born on Dec. 28, 1939 in Wilmington, DE to James and Sybil (Shannon) Cole.

He graduated from Salesianum High School in Wilmington, DE in 1957. He entered the National Guard and served 3 years before being accepted into the Delaware State Police. He was appointed a Trooper on January 1, 1963 and graduated from the 22nd Recruit Class. He served 20 years and achieved the rank of Captain. During his career Tom Cole served at Troop 1, Penny Hill; Headquarters, Dover; and Troop 6, Price's Corner. After Patrol he was a Detective, then served in Fiscal Control, Personnel at Headquarters and then Troop Commander at Troop 6 during his tenure. Captain Tom Cole retired on January 1, 1983. Tom was a Life member of the Association of Retired Delaware State Police.

While serving as a State Trooper, Tom attended The University of Delaware, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. After retiring from the force, he was appointed a Judge for New Castle County, DE, where he served for 20 years until his retirement in 2005.

Tom married Anita Samluk on October 6, 1962 in Wilmington, DE. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, sister Sybil Anderson (Ronald Sr), Millville, DE, daughter Shannon Bray (Marshall), Ponte Vedra, FL, grandchildren Andrew Bray, Ponte Vedra, FL, Victoria Bray, Ponte Vedra, FL, sisters in law Phyllis Cole, Wilmington, DE, and Maryjane Cole, Myrtle Beach, SC and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded to rest by his parents and brothers, James and John.

He was a member of St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church in Wilmington, DE for 32 years, where he served as a Eucharistic minister. After retiring to Florida, he continued to attend services at San Jose and San Sebastion Catholic churches in Jacksonville.

Tom relished spending time with family and friends and particularly watching his grandchildren in whatever activity they may have been involved with. He was an avid sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite teams – Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Philadelphia Flyers, Eagles, and Phillies.

Known for his humor and friendship, he was equally renowned for his fairness and objectiveness during his career as a Trooper and Judge.

Captain Tom Cole received his final transfer and is now serving on Eternal Patrol.