Upon learning of the death of Dr. A. Harold Cole on March 29, a verse from the 3rd chapter of 2nd Samuel came to mind. After King David and all the people had wept over Abner, who had been killed by Joab, David said to his servants: “Do you not know that a prince and a great man has fallen this day in Israel?”
My friendship with Dr. Cole spanned most of a lifetime. It began during my student days at the University of South Carolina, where he came occasionally to speak to the Baptist Student Union. Several years later, we became colleagues on the staff of the South Carolina Baptist Convention for almost 20 years.
He was assistant executive secretary-treasurer for seven years and executive secretary-treasurer for 12 years during my tenure as the first business/financial officer of the convention. He gave direction to the work of South Carolina Baptists in fulfilling the Great Commission, traveling from one end of the state to the other, spending countless hours in meetings with pastors, church staff and laypersons, and delivering numerous sermons and addresses. After 20 years, he retired in February 1982 to a life of more freedom and discretionary time to do personal things he wanted to do with his wife, Inez.
As the servant-leader of South Carolina Baptists, Harold Cole was intelligent, visionary, progressive, and possessed appreciation for all Christians. He had acquired many books and was an avid reader. He loved the outdoors – sports, hunting, fishing and golfing. He was serious, conscientious, prepared and committed to God’s work. Dr. Cole was one of the most honorable leaders I have ever known. He always epitomized integrity.
On the lighter side, we had one point of difference. Harold supported the Clemson Tigers, and I supported the Carolina Gamecocks. Each was never able to change the other.
I always will cherish the friendship and collegiality of Harold and Inez Cole. When I reflect upon Dr. Cole’s death, the question of David resonates in my soul: “Do you not know that a prince and a great man has fallen this day in Israel?”
Thanks be to God for his life and ministry.
(Editor’s note: Harrell’s letter is taken from the eulogy he delivered at Cole’s memorial service on April 2.)
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