“Cole’s Courts” a Memorial at Seamark Ranch for Cole Hunter Kelley

Born:  4/9/05
Born Again:  9/16/14
Called Home:  12/4/19

Cole’s love for life, others and most importantly Jesus is what he will forever be remembered for by those he encountered during his 14 years on this Earth.  

Those who knew Cole, know he was very passionate about sports and the outdoors.  Actually, passionate might not be the best word to describe his love of sports, down-right competitive might be a better choice of words.  He was known for trying any sport, always thinking he was the best, even though that may not have necessarily been the case each and every time.  He was raised on DDOT Timberlands, where his dad works, which is truly a boy’s outdoor dream-come-true. Hunting and fishing were at his finger-tips, and if those are sports, well, then Cole would say that made him an athlete.  Although his love for the outdoors was deep, his love for others was much deeper.

Cole had a dynamic smile that could light up any room, a hug that reached your heart, and a gentleness that brought comfort to others much like holding your grandmother’s hand.  He was quick to notice those in need and brave enough to stand apart from the crowd when the crowd wasn’t representing kindness and love. But what many didn’t realize was, this wasn’t Cole, this was Jesus working through Cole. 

From a very young age, Cole believed in the everlasting love of Jesus.  You see, he was raised by parents who believed in Jesus, raised going to church, and had heard about Jesus his whole life.  However, as a nine-year-old boy in the days preceding September 16, 2014, Cole truly understood it was not his knowledge of Jesus or his attendance in church that would bring him salvation from his sin and eternal life.  Cole admitted he was a sinner, that he wasn’t perfect and he confessed his sins through prayer to Jesus. Cole believed with his whole heart that Jesus died on the cross to save him from his sins, and he wanted others to know that Jesus died for them too!

Therefore, it was in a moment of remembrance of Cole’s love for life, others and Jesus, the idea for “Cole’s Courts” was born. Cole’s Courts, a multi-game court (basketball, volleyball, and tennis), will be built through the generous contributions of friends and family of the Kelleys at Seamark Ranch. Seamark Ranch is a nurturing Christian home and family system for children from broken homes. Through a family home model, a specialized residential school and the lessons of life on a working farm community, Seamark Ranch provides the ideal setting for love, stabilization, healing, education and empowerment.

Once complete, Cole’s Court, will be enjoyed by children of Seamark Ranch and the Seamark School for years to come. 

To make a donation to Seamark Ranch in Cole’s name, please visit: www.seamarkranch.com/donate 

All donations made in Cole Kelley’s name will be contributed directly to the construction of Cole’s Court.