Qunisha Cole

On February 28, 1980 in Muskogee, Oklahoma, God blessed Jacqueline Ross and Michael Cole with a beautiful baby girl who they named Qunisha LaDonna.  Her family and friends lovingly called her Peaches.  Peaches peacefully received her crown on December 3, 2023 surrounded by family members at University of Iowa Hospital.

Peaches spent many wonderful summers with her mother, Grandmother Bettye, sister Cherry, brother Ray, aunts, uncles and numerous cousins experiencing the Muskogee way of life.  She grew up there until the family moved to Des Moines in 1990.  After graduating from Roosevelt High School in 1992, she enrolled in Hamilton College in Des Moines to study Web Design. She loved to cook and was proud and honored to utilize her culinary skills that were passed down by her grandmother, and mother to serve the Senior Citizens of Des Moines.  She also created masterpieces for her family members to enjoy.  Little did she know that her mom would sneak additional seasonings in the food.  Peaches would state “moms I seasoned that real good!!” While doing the happy dance in the kitchen. Peaches spent her free time with her little brother Ray, and their relationship was not like any other.  She was a wonderful big sister who taught him a lot and she always had his back growing up. She had a special bond with her cousin Sylvia whom she shared an apartment with. She had many special friends with whom she loved and enjoyed spending time with.  She was an active member of Christ Apostolic Temple where she attended with her mother when her health allowed.  When she was not physically able she would watch the church service online.  She would often discuss with her mother how she enjoyed the message, and the songs the choir was singing.

When you think of Peaches, remember her always smiling even though she courageously battled Sickle Cell Disease. As you celebrate the good memories of her, remember the beautiful smile that would light up your soul. Also, remember that life is fragile, short and should be lived to the fullest as she did.

Peaches will be missed by her mother Jacqueline, sister Laquinta, Brother Ray, loving aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many great friends. We know Peaches is now with her father Michael, maternal grandparents Bettye Wallace, Johnny Ross Sr, paternal grandparents Emma Cole, Edward Cole, her Aunts Arlene Grant, Christie Ross, Toni Cole and Uncle Johnny Lee Ross Jr.

Peaches always said “One luv” instead of goodbye. She will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She will be forever in our hearts, One luv to you Peaches!

Finally the family asks in lieu of flowers to donate to the Sickle Cell Disease Foundation. To build a world where individuals with Sickle Cell Disease get the care and compassion they deserve.