Candace Cole was so much more than a beloved wife, mother, “Cici,” and friend—she was a passionate educator who dedicated her life to helping children grow through the power of literacy. Whether in the classroom or in everyday life, Candace had a remarkable ability to make people feel seen, valued, and capable. She believed that every child deserved the chance to thrive, and for her, that journey always began with reading.

On June 19, 2025, Candace passed away after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s PSP at the age of 62. While her presence is deeply missed, her legacy of love, faith, and learning lives on.

To honor her memory and continue the work she so deeply believed in, her family has established the Candace Cole Literacy Fund—a campaign supporting literacy efforts in Bay County classrooms. All donations will go directly toward providing reading materials, classroom libraries, intervention tools, and teacher resources that empower students to read, grow, and succeed.

Candace’s life was defined by service—this fund is our way of keeping that spirit alive.

Whether you give $5 or $500, your donation will help change the life of a child through the gift of reading. Thank you for helping us carry her light forward.

With gratitude,
The family and friends of Candace Cole

The Candace Cole Literacy Fund