James W. Cole, owner of the Shine King passed away today. For over 50 years, the Shine King was known in the community for providing jobs to at-risk individuals in the Austin and Garfield Park communities.
In a statement from his son, Vernon Cole, he said, “We regretfully announce the passing of our CEO, James W Cole. Mr. Cole passed this morning at 4:10 am at West Suburban Hospital. He was born in Humboldt TN. He is known for the birth of Shoe Shine King, his baby for 57 years. We are still in the process of dealing with this shocking news. Our family and the Shine King community request privacy while we take the needed steps to move forward. Funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days.”
Shine King is located at 338 N. Central Avenue in Chicago Illinois, 60644.