Mr. Jerome Phillip Coule, the beloved husband of the late Carolyn Coule, entered into rest on Sunday, May 15, 2022, at his residence.

Jerry was born in East St.Louis, IL, and raised in Miami, Florida.  After enlisting in the U.S. Army he served during the Vietnam War as a medical photographer and combat medic.  He was stationed at Fort McPherson, near Atlanta , where he met his wife and began a family.  After his honorable discharge from the U.S. Army, he continued in service as a civilian medical photographer at Eisenhower Medical Center at Fort Gordon and retired after 50 years. For more than 30 years, Jerry served as a Scoutmaster for the Boy Scouts of America, a devoted Sunday s chool teacher, and a leader in the church.  Many will remember him for his legendary campfire fables at scouting events, youth camp, and church services on Wednesday nights.

His love of God, children, and family defined his life.  Affectionately known as "Papa", he loved a house full of children.  Whether a foster child in need of love and shelter or the entire Boy Scout troop, he always had time for anyone who needed advice, a caring ear, or direction.  Jerry and Carolyn foster parented more than 25 children but impacted the lives of hundreds through their selfless giving of their time, teaching, and welcoming youth into their home.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Carolyn Stone Coule.  He is survived by his children, Gyalia Coule Rutledge (Terry), Ricky Coule (Cindy), and Phillip Coule (Lynne); eleven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and numerous foster children.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the many healthcare providers that cared for " Papa " , extending his time with us, including Kindred Hospice, Rodney Young, Fresenius Dialysis, and his team of healthcare professionals at the Augusta University Health System.

Funeral services will be held at noon on Friday, May 20, 2022, at The Sanctuary of Augusta, 4584 Cox Road, Evans, GA 30809, with Rev. Bryan Cockrell officiating. The family will greet friends at the church two hours prior to service time. Interment will immediately follow in the mausoleum at Bellevue Memorial Gardens, 4501 Wrightsboro Road, Grovetown, GA 30809.

The family requests donations to The Sanctuary of Augusta in lieu of flowers. Pallbearers will be his grandsons.