Hi, I’m Lacey from Cole’s work family. On Wednesday August 27th, our “Papa Cole” didn’t arrive at work on time. When our teammate Karina called to check on him, we learned the devastating news: Cole had suffered a cardiac arrest. His brain was without oxygen long enough to cause severe damage.

The hospital asked his wife to make a difficult decision on Wednesday September 3rd, and Papa Cole couldn't fight any longer. Papa Cole passed away peacefully that night with his family by his side. If you knew Cole, you know he showed up—for his family, for his clients, and for all of us. He’s the first one to help, the last one to complain, and the steady voice we all leaned on. He leaves behind his beloved wife Sonia and their son CJ Cole jr, who were the center of his world. This was sudden and unexpected. We’re raising funds to help Cole’s family with funeral costs, immediate living expenses, medical and end-of-life bills, and grief support. Our goal is to ease the financial shock so they can focus on honoring Cole and being together. We will add Sonia as the beneficiary, so funds go directly to her. I’ll post updates and, when appropriate, share how the funds are used. If you can’t donate, a share truly helps.

From the bottom of our hearts—thank you for helping us show up for the man who always showed up for everyone else.