Melvin Jerome Cole

Melvin Jerome Cole, 80, of Socorro, New Mexico passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family on January 28, 2024.  Melvin was born March 28, 1943 to Pat Cole and Estefana Gomez Cole in Magdalena, New Mexico.  Melvin was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, friend and veteran of the United States Air Force.  After being honorably discharged from the Air Force, he married his wife of 56 years, Josephine Lopez on May 26, 1967.    Melvin and Josie had five children together, Melvin Jr, Trisha, Chrissy, Mike & Linda Jo. 

Melvin was raised in San Antonio on his parents’ farm.  He worked many years as a heavy equipment operator in the Uranium mines.  He moved back to the Socorro area in 1980 to raise his family.  Melvin retired from White Sands Missile Range after 16 years.  He went on to work at his son’s business for another 9 years.  Melvin spent his time off work with family and friends.  He never missed a NASCAR race, a good western or a Denver Broncos game on TV.  He enjoyed participating in horseshoe and billiards tournaments which won him many trophies and awards. 

Melvin is preceded in death by his parents Calvin and Estefana (Gomez) Reaves, his son Melvin Cole Jr., sister Beatrice Padilla and great-granddaughters Ariya Baca and Briella Baca. 

He is survived by his loving wife Josie, his children Patricia Cole (Albert Gutierrez), Mary Christine Baca (Ernest Baca), Michael Cole (Irene Sanchez), Linda Gonzales (Aaron Gonzales), 12 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, his brothers, sisters, brothers in law, sisters in law and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Melvin will be remembered as a man who loved his family and friends with all his heart.  He will be greatly missed.

Pallbearer 

Anthony Gonzales Jr

Ronnie Gonzales Jr

Aaron Gonzales Jr

Nicolas Gonzales

Christopher Cole

Johnny Gonzales Jr.

Honorary Pallbearer 

Alfred Sanchez

Aaron Baca

James Baca

Jonathon Cole

Joseph Stacy