In Loving Memory of Thelma Cole Acosta Thelma Cole Acosta, born on October 15, 1932, in Tampa, Florida, peacefully departed from this world on October 1, 2023. She was the fifth child of six born to the late Sylvester Clarence Cole and Gladys Green Cole.

Thelma was preceded in death by her husband Ansel Lionel Acosta, Sr., her parents, and beloved siblings: Clarence Cole, Genevieve Von-Lockette, Robert Cole, and Billy Cole. Gladys Lang is the sole surviving sibling, left to cherish Thelma's memory.

Thelmas journey through life was marked by a deep commitment to education and a passion for music. She received her early education in the Hillsborough Public School System, attending Lomax Elementary School, Booker T. Washington Junior High School, and Middleton Senior High School. In her formative years, Thelma also attended a private school from the 1st to 3rd grades under the guidance of Mrs. Daniels. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to Florida A&M University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Music, with aspirations of becoming a high school band director. At FAMU, Thelma showcased her musical talents, proficiently playing both the piano and clarinet within the universitys music education department. Thelma leaves behind a legacy of love and family. Her devoted children survive her, L. Anthony Acosta (Jackie) and Devario S. Acosta (Tammy), as well as her cherished grandchildren, Alexander Acosta, Zandria Acosta, Alvin C. Acosta, Jr., Anita Clark (Paul), Renesha Acosta, Troanda Norton, Aldreya Acosta, Jaela Lawson (Cedric), Darius Acosta, Dorain Acosta. Additionally, she is remembered by her other relatives: Mary "Blossom" Walker, Anthony "Tony" Cole (Janice), Joan "Clarice" Allen, John Cole (Sylvia), Todd Cole, Jamie Cole, Irma Sara Bozeman, Bernie Green (Juanita), Rachel Naomi Dowling, Reco Cole, Sr., Reco Cole, Jr., Rashad Cole, Terrence Cole, Ronald Lang (BJ), Angela Lang, Marlott Lang (Sheree), Minister Josephine Hubbard (Rev. Ronald Hubbard), Valerie Goddard (Anthony), Ronald Charles Hubbard (Lyndia), Lyman Broadie (Janice), Joe Green, Mack C. Hill (Dale), Toni Harris (Michael), Michelle Hill (Andi), Jeffrey Hill (Monique), Joan Clarice Allen, Ansel Cole, Tony Cole, Harriet Gordon (James), Lynn Baker (Charzell), Helen Bozeman, Sheila Bright, Barbra "Nikki" Braithwaite-Hazelton, Audrey Acosta, Gwendolyn Fowler, Deniece Griffin (Hervey) and Mishondra Key. Thelmas circle of friends was a source of joy throughout her life, and she leaves behind dear friends who meant the world to her: Harriett Willis, Lula Jones, Annette Bolton, Ivette Ramos, Mike Andrews (Becky), and Michael McCalla (Kim), Terry McClean, Kevin McClean, Sandra Weaver (William) and Debbie Hannah. Thelma Cole Acosta's impact on the lives of those who knew her was immeasurable. Her dedication to education, love for music, and warm spirit will forever be cherished in the hearts of her family and friends.


May she rest in eternal peace.

Visitation
Wednesday, October 4, 2023
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Aikens Funeral Home
2708 E Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
Tampa, FL 33610

Graveside Service
Thursday, October 5, 2023
11:00 AM
Rest Haven Memorial Park Cemetery
4615 E. Hanna Ave.
Tampa, FL 33610