William Cole Woodruff, affectionately known as “Coco,” was born on July 6, 2004, in The Woodlands, Texas, to Joseph Earl Woodruff and Anna Renne Faulkner Woodruff. He passed away unexpectedly, far too soon, on August 23, 2025, at the age of 21.
A proud lifelong resident of Coldspring, Texas, Cole lived with a big heart, a bright smile, and a zest for life that drew people to him instantly. To know Cole was to love him—he never met a stranger, and his warmth, kindness, and humor left lasting impressions on everyone he met.
Cole was the very definition of grit and strength—rugged, tough as nails, and gifted in nearly everything he set his mind to. A natural athlete, he excelled in baseball, especially as a pitcher, but also loved hunting, roping steers, riding four-wheelers, bonfires, and wrestling matches (where victory was almost always his). Competitive yet full of laughter, Cole was both fierce and fun-loving, a man’s man with a heart of gold.
In July 2023, Cole answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Army as an Infantryman. In just over two years of service, he achieved excellence, qualifying as an expert marksman by hitting 36 out of 40 targets. His dedication earned him several honors, including the Army Achievement Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and the Combat and Special Skill Badge – Basic Marksmanship Qual Badge (Expert). He served proudly, carrying the same determination and spirit that defined every part of his life.
Above all else, Cole cherished his roles as a son, husband, brother, grandson, uncle, cousin, and friend. His loyalty was unwavering, his sense of humor unmatched, and his presence a source of joy and strength to all who loved him.
Cole is survived by his loving wife, Arora Hewitt; his mother, Anna Steele, and husband Bryan; his father, Joe Woodruff, and wife Catherine; grandparents, Mary Faulkner and Gale Altman with husband Charles; sisters, Ava Steele and Paisley Steele; brothers, Gatlin Steele, Hunter Steele, Tyler Husband and wife Harley, Dually Husband and wife Bobbie, Morgan Thornton, and Raven Thornton. He will also be remembered with love by countless aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Jerry Glen Faulkner and William Lewis Woodruff; his uncle, William Wayne Woodruff; and his great-grandmother, Beatrice Copeland.
Cole’s life was a brilliant light—one that burned brightly with love, courage, and laughter, and ended far too soon. His memory will live forever in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.
Services: A visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Pace-Stancil Funeral Home Chapel in Cleveland. A funeral service celebrating Cole’s life will take place on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the First Baptist Church in Coldspring, with Pastor Dalton Currie officiating. Following the service, Cole will be laid to rest at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Coldspring.