BUFFALO GROVE, Ill. — The Friendship Circle of Illinois and the broader Jewish community are mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Halyse Cole, a longtime volunteer remembered for her radiant smile, generous heart, and unwavering commitment to helping others. Halyse passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and service.
Known for her years of volunteer work with Friendship Circle, Halyse was more than a helping hand—she was a pillar of warmth and friendship to the many lives she touched. Whether she was offering a word of encouragement, assisting children and families with disabilities, or simply showing up with a smile, Halyse embodied the spirit of selfless giving. Her dedication left an indelible mark on the organization and everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her.
“She was always smiling, always ready to help. Her presence lit up the room,” one representative from Friendship Circle said. “We are devastated by her passing. She was a friend to everyone.”
A funeral service for Halyse will be held Thursday, June 19 at 2:00 PM at Chicago Jewish Funerals, located at 195 N. Buffalo Grove Road, Buffalo Grove. Interment will follow at Shalom Memorial Park.
Halyse Cole was the loving daughter of Sheri (Michael Weiss) Cloch and Bruce (Piyali) Cole, and the beloved sister of Sydni Cole, Elliott (Katie) Cole, and Joshua Cole. She was also a cherished and close cousin to Benjamin Ginsburg, Noah (Colleen) Ginsburg, Samuel (Keely) Waxman, and Rebecca Waxman. Halyse was a dear niece to Sandi and Steve Ginsburg and Barbara Waxman, and a cherished granddaughter of Hope Cole and the late Mitchell Cole, as well as the late Myrna and Alvin Cloch.
She is also fondly remembered by her step-siblings: Maureen (Ralph) Throop, Benjamin (Vanessa) Weiss, and Sarah (Saoirse) Weiss.
The loss of Halyse Cole is being felt deeply across generations of family, friends, and community members. In her short time, she built a reputation for grace, humility, and joy—a soul who made others feel seen and cared for. Her memory will be a guiding light for those she served, and her spirit will live on in the acts of kindness she inspired.
May her family be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.