Service Details
Family and friends are invited to meet in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Monday, March 1, 2021 for a visitation from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
A service remembering and celebrating her life will follow at 11:00 a.m.
For those wishing to watch via livestream please use this link https://youtu.be/r8xZA46-wY4
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RACINE – Mrs. Teresa Camille Cole, 73, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday, February 23, 2021.
She was born in Racine on April 11, 1947, the daughter of Wilbert and Alma (nee Baird) McKinley, Sr. She graduated from William Horlick High School in 1965 and was one of the first Black cheerleaders in the city of Racine. On October 2, 1965 she married Richard “Dickie” Nathaniel Cole. He preceded her in death on August 28, 2017.
Teresa retired from InSinkErator after over 30 years of service. She loved traveling around the United States with Dickie, especially to New Orleans, Las Vegas and Michigan to see her grandsons play football. She was an avid reader and enjoyed listening to Motown and cheering for the Minnesota Vikings. Teresa always looked forward to her grandchildren’s sporting events and activities and was simply happiest when in the company of her family.
She is survived by her mother, Alma McKinley; her children, Christopher (Laura Slotnick) Cole, Gretchen (Eric) Williams, Darren Cole; her stepson, whom she included as her own, Sean (Trish) Cole; her grandchildren, Christopher and Nicholas Williams, Darrion, Jayson, Myles, and Maxwell Cole, Aaron and Cameron Cole; her great grandchildren, Madisyn and Ariyella Cole; her siblings, Machelle Curtis, Wilbert (Ruthanne) McKinley, Jr., Janita (Bryan) Finley, Adrienne (Steven) Boykin; as well as many dear nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, Dickie, Teresa was preceded in death by her father, Wilbert McKinley, Sr; her mother-in-law, Valetta Brazelton; and her brother-in-law, William Curtis.
Family and friends are invited to meet in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Monday, March 1, 2021 for a visitation from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. A service remembering and celebrating her life will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Tyron Patrick officiating. For those wishing to watch via livestream please use this link https://youtu.be/r8xZA46-wY4. A private interment will take place at West Lawn Memorial Park.
Yvette Culkar says
To the family,
My heart felt condolences I offer to you all. May the Lord bless you and keep you during this trying time and may He give you His peace.
Sylvia E. Scott says
I can’t believe you’re no longer here Teresa! But I know you’re with some very special people in Heaven. I didn’t see you much in our adult years, but I will definitely miss you!
Your classmate, friend and (just like ) family,
Sylvia (Bolts) Scott
NICK THIELEN says
MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO TERESA’S FAMILY. SHE WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED AS A WONDERFUL LADY. I ENJOYED WORKING WITH HER AT INSINKERATOR.
LOVE AND PEACE,
NICK THIELEN
Jozell and Jimmy Davies says
To the Cole Family I will always remember the good time Teresa and I had as children. We didn’t see each other much as adults but always tried to “catch up” when we ran into each other. I will always carry our friendship in my heart. Love and prayers to the family. 🙏
Sherby A Oliver says
Teresa was always someone I admired and respected while growing up on Racine’s Northside. Rest In Peace.
LaWana, Charlie & Aunt Ches says
Dear family,
I am just so shocked at the loss of Teresa. I remember the fun days when we would sit around the kitchen table and visit and laugh. She just recently called my mom, Aunt Ches, to check on her. We love you all and may Jehovah bring comfort to the family in this time of deep sorrow.
LaWana, Charlie and Aunt Ches
Sue Conway says
I wish I could remember the exact circumstances, but I remember showing up to Theresa’s house when Gretchen was in town, and a lot of family were around. I felt bad interrupting their family time, and said something out loud. Theresa looked at me like I was crazy and said you ARE family.
I am so shocked and sad to hear about Theresa’s passing. I know she is in a better place, but I also know it’s a little darker here for those of us left behind. Sending lots of love and comfort to Gretchen, and all Theresa’s family, even those of us who weren’t blood.
Therese Heller says
My condolences to the Cole family. I worked with your mother at InSinkErator. She was such a happy go lucky lady. She always spoke very highly of her family.
Janet Cobb Mirchell says
My heartfelt condolences to the family. What good times we had on Frederick St. May you remember the good times you shared with her. Time heals a broken heart.
Gracie G Witherspoon says
I was actually mortified when my son informed me that Teresa had passed. I find it hard to come by words to express what I feel, So I’ll just say to the family, may God be with you thru your pain, and I pray for your comfort.
Northweston and Lois Witherspoon says
We share your lost, and will keep all of you in our prayers.
Carmen Morrison says
We’re sorry we can’t be with you all.
We loved Teresa dearly. Her beautiful smile and kind heart is what we’ll always remember. We will continue to pray for God’s Love to comfort you. Sending Our Love ,
Aunt Maxine & Cousin Carmen
Kansas City, Missouri
Vera Williams says
Dear Family,
May God’s peace and loving care give you the strength you need and bring comfort to your heart.
With Love
Mrs. Vera Williams
Terry (Jorgensen) Kropp says
I have many great memories of the McKinley family from when I was a young child
Great, loving family
Many years later I worked at InSinkErator and ran into Teresa
She said, “ Terry Lynn Jorgensen?”
She was always so bright and cheerful
Our heartfelt sympathy to you all,
Terry (Jorgensen) Kropp & Rich Kropp
Bob and Carol Thiel says
We were so sorry to see that Teresa passed away. Both my husband and I worked with Teresa at InSinkErator and we each remember her fondly. Her smile was always a day brightener; she was just a delightful person. We’re so sorry for your family and their loss. God bless you and bring you solace in your time of sadness.
Will and LeLar Beadles jr. says
To the Cole family we are so sorry for your loss. As you know we had lots of GOOD times
with your mother and father. Teresa was a great person and loved by all that knew her. She will be missed, Her and Dick will be together once again. RIP dear lady.
Genise Perry and family says
I am so sorry for your loss. I’m praying for Sis. McKinley and the entire family. I love you all!
Demeterius Powell says
I’m very sorry for your lost you sister and daughter I Hope that God Give you comfert at time in your life may teresa Rip.
Tammi J. Mccright says
Chris, I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers.
Ellisa L Elliott says
Chris, Gretchen and Darren,
You are in my thoughts and prayers. I am in total shock; Teresa and I took turns calling each other. I was supposed to call her today; she’s gone!! She will always be my “Big Sister”; more than a cousin. You guys will always be my “kids” from when I used to babysit you until now. I am always here if you need anything. Love you.
Lisa
Jann says
Teresa was kind, loved a good laugh and she had a beautiful smile. Gone too soon, she will be dearly missed. May she rest in God’s peace. To the family, remember: The BEST things in life are the PEOPLE you love, the PLACES you’ve been and the MEMORIES you’ve made along the way.
Andrew & Linda Tyler says
Sending my condolences and prayers to your family.
Stacey Moore & Family says
Sending our condolences to the family.
Tresa Williams says
Prayers of comfort to the family now and always.
Vicki Dyess says
My heart goes out to the Cole family. Teresa was a wonderful woman- she was always so full of energy .I know she loved her kids and grandkids. I will keep your family in my prayers!
Therita Bogan Harris says
To the Family, You have my deepest condolences
Pamela J Chatman and Family says
Dear Family,
Death is truly our enemy, it comes unannounced and often unexpectedly. I didn’t know Teresa very long but what I do know about her is that she truly loved her family. I pray all of you will find comfort in each other and all the friends that love you, to get through this grief together. Sending love and hugs as well as prayers. I’m so sorry for your lose.
Sincerely Pamela Chatman
Aletha Kimmons Slaughter says
To the Cole and Mckinley Family
So sorry to hear about the passing of a your loved one.
She will be dearly missed
Praying for the family
Janice (Kirby) Bond & Family says
To the Cole and Mckinley families, may God put you in his arms and comfort you at this time. One memory I have of Teresa; talking to her as an opposing cheerleader from Washington Jr. High School and seeing her do cartwheels . She was so good it looked like her hands never touched the floor! WOW! I was a cheerleader at Franklin Jr. High School I wished I was that good. I will keep the families in my prayers. Love to all at this time.
Michelle and Dmetri Culkar says
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Dawn Hassel says
So very sorry to read about Teresa. I worked with her at ISE. My condolences to her family.
Pat and Janet Bolts says
I remember the days at Horlick High. We were always fascinated how fast Teresa could run. When we visited our Uncle on Fredrick St we’d walk down to the McKinley house to visit. Our mothers worked together. Our condolences and prayers to the family. Teresa will be missed. Pat and Janet Bolts
Deborah Vaughn Herrem says
I will always remember Teresa’s smiles, laughter, wit, and kindness. She always made me feel welcomed whenever we were in each other’s company. Teresa was a dear friend for many, many years. Our friendship will forever remain in my heart.
I pray that God will bless her family with Peace and Comfort during this difficult time.
Sincerely with Sympathy and Love
Joyce-shelton-smith, McDonough, GA. says
So sorry for your loss. RiP
Weeks Family says
Our heart felt condolences to you and the family in this time of sorrow. May you feel the light of the Lord bless you and keep you and bring you peace…
Blessed are those that mourn, for they shall be comforted. Matt. 5:4
Love the Weeks family
Kevin McCormick says
My condolences to Chris and the Cole family.
Kim Cole says
I am so sorry for your loss. I have awesome memories of spending time with the Cole family and I will cherish the laughter and lessons learned from Mrs. Teresa. Gretchen, Chris and Darren, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Northweston and Lois Witherspoon says
Teresa was a joy to our family, she will be missed. I will always remember her with joy and happiness. Thanks for being part of our family.
Skip Harper says
I will all ways love you cuz.
RIP
Skip
Jan and Pam Harper says
We will always miss your smiling face.
RIP
“Betty Joyce “ says
My condolences to the family. Teresa was a special person and will be missed🙏🏾
David & Tramell Weeks says
The Weeks family sends our prayers and condolences to you and your family. We love you all !
Chelle Herrem Borleske says
My heart is so broken at the passing of my second lifelong momma. I can’t remember not knowing Teresa and feeling like one of her kids. From all the times playing in the basement and sleepovers with Gretchen, to dancing at my wedding reception, to meeting my own kids, momma Teresa was always there with hugs, love, and laughter. She was a wonderful woman and I will love her always!
Marie Cook says
Family,. I pray God will comfort you all in this difficult time. I love you all.
Marie Morrison Cook & Family
Kansas City
Gail Boykin - Dansby and family says
My sincerest condolences to the family. Rest peacefully in Gods loving arms.
Bridget Tauber says
So happy to have met Teresa and spent time cheering in the stands with her. Always a smile and kind word. She will be missed.
Sending condolences and prayers during this difficult time.
Wendy Ekstrom (prior co-worker from Target) says
Sending prayers and hugs to you Gretchen in the loss of your mother. I hope her warm smile and fun memories bring you more joy than sadness in the days ahead. Your mom also has another cheerleader in heaven rooting on the Vikings as my mom, who also passed away, was from Minnesota and was passionate about the Vikings too!!
Patricia (Stephens) Rogers says
My sincerest and heartfelt condolences to Alma Jean McKinley, and the McKinley/Cole Family. To my friend Teresa, please know I’ll always remember you–I will carry you close to my heart…I will carry you in my heart!!
BEST FRIENDS FOREVER….!!
Phyllis Stills-Cannon Family. says
My condolences to your family. My heart goes out to you all.
Maggie Cobb says
My sincere condolences to the family Teresa and I go way back as kids as adults we didn’t see each other as we would like too. Once we saw each other it was like we had never been apart .May your memories comfort you during this difficult time.Gone but not forgotten.