William Arthur Cole

William "Bill" Arthur Cole, age 89, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026.

Bill was born on June 1, 1936, in Providence, Rhode Island, to Harold and Olivine Cole. He earned a master’s degree in business and proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for over 20 years.Following his military service, Bill continued a distinguished professional career. He served as Director of Communications at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) for more than two decades and later worked at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort for 20 years. His dedication, professionalism, and strong work ethic were evident throughout his career.

Bill was a member of the Arkansas Alumni Association and was an avid Razorbacks fan. He was a generous supporter of the Girl Scouts and a dedicated multi-gallon blood donor, quietly giving of himself to help countless others. In his leisure time, he greatly enjoyed fishing and boating.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four sisters; and four brothers: Harold “Zeke” Cole, Thelma Boucher, Alcey Ciocca, Donald Cole, Etta Leighty, Olive “Kerr” Walsh, Richard “Dick” Cole, and James “Ron” Cole.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 20 years, Connie Cole; his daughters, Cathy Ward and her husband Charles Ward, and Mallory Jones; his son, William “Monty” Cole and his wife Karen; his sister-in-laws, Sue Garrison, Elaine Sherman, and Joyce Cogburn; his stepson, Dustin Ragle and his wife Ashley Ragle, and stepson Skyler Ragle and his wife Cherry Ragle; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to A Place at Home and Britni Smith, Hospice HomeCare and his RN Amber, and his devoted aides, Mica and Jalisa, for their compassionate care and support.

Services will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements by Arkansas Cremation, 10515 W Markham St, Suite B1, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205. If you would like to leave a message of condolence to the family, you may do so using the Guestbook section. 

www.arkansascremation.com