Floor SpeechNeutral2026-01-14

HONORING THE LIFE OF EDWARD "EDDIE" COLE

Context

On 2026-01-14, Representative Maxwell Frost (D-FL-10) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LIFE OF EDWARD "EDDIE" COLE" in the House.

Full Text

HONORING THE LIFE OF EDWARD "EDDIE" COLE

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 10 (Wednesday, January 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 10 (Wednesday, January 14, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E41] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE OF EDWARD ``EDDIE'' COLE _____ HON. MAXWELL FROST of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, January 14, 2026 Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Edward ``Eddie'' Cole, a devoted public servant, community advocate, and beloved leader who passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at the age of 67. Eddie Cole proudly served as Mayor of Florida's oldest Black incorporated municipality, the Historic Town of Eatonville from 2016 to 2022. A tireless champion for preserving Eatonville's history, including the legacy of the Hungerford School, Mayor Cole led with passion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to his community. Beyond public service, he spent more than 30 years as an assistant coach for the Rollins College women's basketball team, earning induction into the Rollins Sports Hall of Fame in 2023. He also served as chaplain for the Orlando Magic, offering guidance and faith to players and staff. Perhaps his greatest pride was his two decades as executive director of Every Kid Outreach Inc., where he transformed countless young lives through mentorship, encouragement, and opportunity. While his accomplishments were many, Eddie Cole's greatest impact was the love he poured into people. Mayor Cole led with love, compassion, and a deep commitment to uplifting others, serving his community for decades as a public servant, coach, and trusted leader. Sending much love and prayers to his family, loved ones, and all who were blessed to know him. His legacy of service will live on forever. ____________________

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HONORING THE LIFE OF EDWARD "EDDIE" COLE Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 10 (Wednesday, January 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 10 (Wednesday, January 14, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E41] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE OF EDWARD ``EDDIE'' COLE _____ HON. MAXWELL FROST of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, January 14, 2026 Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Edward ``Eddie'' Cole, a devoted public servant, community advocate, and beloved leader who passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at the age of 67. Eddie Cole proudly served as Mayor of Florida's oldest Black incorporated municipality, the Historic Town of Eatonville from 2016 to 2022. A tireless champion for preserving Eatonville's history, including the legacy of the Hungerford School, Mayor Cole led with passion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to his community. Beyond public service, he spent more than 30 years as an assistant coach for the Rollins College women's basketball team, earning induction into the Rollins Sports Hall of Fame in 2023. He also served as chaplain for the Orlando Magic, offering guidance and faith to players and staff. Perhaps his greatest pride was his two decades as executive director of Every Kid Outreach Inc., where he transformed countless young lives through mentorship, encouragement, and opportunity. While his accomplishments were many, Eddie Cole's greatest impact was the love he poured into people. Mayor Cole led with love, compassion, and a deep commitment to uplifting others, serving his community for decades as a public servant, coach, and trusted leader. Sending much love and prayers to his family, loved ones, and all who were blessed to know him. His legacy of service will live on forever. ____________________