James Todd Cole was born on May 7, 1962 to James E. Cole and Ersia M. Harley in Huntsville, Texas.

James received his formal education from Huntsville I.S.D. He graduated from Huntsville High School with the class of 1980. He started working at an early age. His career path led him to Wiesner of Huntsville. There he worked as a salesman and later progressed to the service department. He was a dedicated employee until his health started to fail.

James accepted Christ at an early age at Hills Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. In 2001 he joined New Lincoln Missionary Baptist Church in Austin, Texas. It was there that he was called into the ministry. After relocating to Huntsville, he joined Greater Zion Missionary Baptist Church. His spiritual journey led him to Unity of Faith Missionary Baptist Church. Shortly before he was called home, he accepted the role as Pastor of New Zion Missionary Baptist Church.

James leaves to cherish his memory, his wife: LaShanque Smith Cole; parents: James E Cole, Ersia M Harley (William); son: Derek Perkins (Teesha), Joseph Caraballo, Trevion Stubblefield, Jevon Cole, Johnathan Cole, Keith Williams II, daughters: Jaili S. Cole, Ke'Andra Williams, Khiyah Williams; sisters: Cheryl Archie (Darrin), Deana Butler (Michael), Tonya Head (Adrian), Frances Cabiness (Donshas); 9 grandchildren and a host of additional relatives and many friends.