Endicott Grieves the Tragic Passing of Beloved Officer ‘J. Cole’
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Gulls are mourning the loss of Sergeant Jeremy Cole, a beloved officer and 15-year member of the Campus Public Safety Department. Affectionately known as “J. Cole,” he touched countless lives through his unwavering dedication and kindness.
12/1/2024
Endicott College mourns the loss of Sergeant Jeremy Cole, a cherished and dedicated member of the Campus Public Safety and Police Department, who tragically passed away in a car accident early Thanksgiving morning. Sgt. Cole was driving home to Exeter, N.H., after completing his evening shift on campus when his vehicle was struck head-on by a wrong-way driver on I-95 in Newbury, Mass.
Affectionately known as “J. Cole” by everyone at the Nest, Sgt. Cole faithfully served Endicott College for 15 years, leaving an indelible mark on the community. Known for his unwavering commitment to student safety and well-being, he exemplified the highest standards of public service. In 2021, Sgt. Cole, alongside Officer Sean Gannon, received the prestigious Lifesaving Award from the Massachusetts Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators for their heroic efforts in saving the life of assistant softball coach David Bettencourt, who went into cardiac arrest on campus.
“This act of bravery was just one example of the selflessness and care that defined Jeremy’s service to Endicott,” said President Steven R. DiSalvo, Ph.D.
“This is an incredibly difficult time for our department. We are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss. Sgt. Cole was not only a dedicated public servant and prior recipient of a lifesaving award, but also a cherished member of our team,” said Chief of Police Kerry Ramsdell.
President DiSalvo echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Sgt. Cole’s profound impact on the campus community: “J. Cole was the consummate student-focused representative of the Endicott community. I witnessed his interactions with students at athletics events, in the dining hall, at open house events and during his everyday duties on campus. He was loved and respected by all at the Nest. Eileen and I will miss his genuine kindness and his warm sense of humor.”
Sgt. Cole is survived by his wife, Laura, his four children, and his parents, Richard and Brenda. He was a devoted family man whose selflessness extended beyond his professional life.
While Cole passed over Thanksgiving break, a time when students returned home for the holiday, that did not stop the Endicott community from mobilizing resources in his honor.
Business major Ben Fridlington ’25 took immediate action when he heard the news and launched a GoFundMe “to try to raise as much for his family who needs our support right now as they navigate this difficult time. All money raised will go directly to the family,” wrote Fridlington. The GoFundMe has already raised nearly $80,000.
“J. Cole was a great man and a symbol of what it means to protect and serve. He always made himself available to every student on campus and made sure everyone knew they had his love and support no matter what the situation was,” Fridlington added.
That is exactly how he will be remembered at the Nest.
On Monday, December 2, the Endicott community is invited to gather in the Center for Belonging at 9 a.m. for coffee, tea, and pastries to collectively process this loss. Details for a memorial service will be shared at a later time.
Additionally, support services are being offered to students and staff. For students, the Wellness Center is available to provide support during this difficult time. Student Affairs staff will be available to students returning on Sunday, Dec. 1, between noon and 4 p.m. in Lower Callahan. Counselors will be available to students in the Wellness Center, beginning at 9 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 2. Students can visit the Wellness Center on Monday or call 978-232-2104. Comfort dogs from Endicott and surrounding communities will be available in Lower Callahan from 4-6 p.m. throughout the week.
Employees may contact a qualified counselor through Unum, part of the College’s employee assistance program, by calling 800-854-1446 or visiting unum.com/lifebalance. For additional information about accessing employee assistance, please contact Human Resources at humanresources@endicott.edu.