Obituaries

Julie Ann Cole, 65, of Newport, passed away at home on Wednesday, June 3, 2026. Julie was born November 10, 1960, to Elizabeth and James Wardlow, who precede her in passing. Also preceding Julie in death is her beloved son, Donald 'Bud' Cole.

Julie's memory lives on with her husband of 32 years, Steven Gibson; her sons, Chris Cole (Kate) and Chad Gibson; her brothers, Jim Wardlow (Miles), Larkin Wardlow, and Robert Wardlow (Michael); her sixteen grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren with one more on the way. Also left behind to miss Julie are her cherished pets; her cats, Buddy and Onyx; her dog, Max; and her Senegal Parrot, Frankie.

Julie Ann Cole was a kindhearted person with a deep love for the outdoors. Her family recalls adventurous trips to King's Island, Coney Island, and Brookville Lake; as well as peaceful moments sitting and talking on the porch, feeding the birds and enjoying a sunny day.

She was a good mother to her children. They will miss the stories she loved to tell about her life and will carry on her tradition by telling stories of the memories they made with her. In Julie's stories were lessons, gifts of advice and tidbits of wisdom that all who knew her will cherish forever. Julie was caring, helpful, and unconditionally loving. She was the kind of person who brightened a room just by being in it, and her sweet, happy presence will be dearly missed.

Funeral services for Julie Ann Cole will take place Friday, June 12 at Floral Hills Funeral Home, Chapel A. Visitation will be from 8:00-10:00 AM, and the funeral service will begin at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at 11:00 AM at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens.