Booker T. Cole Jr., 72 of Rock Island, IL passed away on Monday February 16, 2026, at Unity-Point Health-Trinity, Rock Island, IL

He was previously a resident at Generations Nursing Facility, Rock Island.

Booker was born on May 25, 1953, in Moline, IL – the son of Booker T. Cole Sr., and Clara (McManus) Cole. His childhood was divided between Illinois and California. He graduated from high school while residing in California and entered his military service there. He served as a lithographer in the U.S. Navy. In his later years, he returned to Rock Island and lived with his mother Clara until her passing.

He was a member of Second Baptist Church, Rock Island. He loved his family and attended as many family and church functions when he could.

Services for Mr. Cole will be 11:30 am, Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Second Baptist Church, 919 - 6th Avenue, Rock Island, IL. Visitation will be at one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial with military honors will be at the Rock Island National Cemetery. Memorial may be made to the family for a memorial fund that will be established later. Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island is assisting the family.

Leaving to mourn his passing are siblings, Johnnie “LaQuinn” Cole-Graves, Kerry Vincent Clark, Jennifer Cole, Crystal Cole, Jerome “Jerry” Cole, and Joel Cole; cousins, Thanolia “Nobie” Hudson, Mattie Seward and several other family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Michael Cole.