BELTON, Texas – The community of Belton, Texas, is reeling from the tragic loss of Cole Hobbs, a 19-year-old young man who passed away in a fatal accident on July 20, 2025. Known for his infectious smile, kind heart, and passion for life, Cole’s untimely death has left his family and the Central Texas community in profound grief. His passing has sparked an outpouring of love and tributes from friends, family, and all who were touched by his warm spirit. This obituary serves to honor his vibrant life, the legacy he leaves behind, and the joy he shared with everyone he met.

A Life Filled with Passion and Purpose

Born in 2006 in Belton, Cole Hobbs grew up in a tight-knit community where he formed lifelong friendships and discovered his passions for sports, education, and helping others. After graduating from Belton High School in 2024, Cole quickly became known for his athletic prowess, particularly in track and field, where he earned admiration for his dedication, sportsmanship, and relentless determination. His performances on the track were not just about winning, but about inspiring his teammates to push their limits and excel alongside him.

Cole’s love for competition was rivaled only by his ability to inspire and uplift those around him. His work ethic and enthusiasm earned him the respect of his peers, and his contagious positive energy made him a leader in his community. He believed in the power of hard work and persistence, traits that served him well in both his academic and athletic endeavors.

Following high school, Cole pursued his dream of becoming a physical therapist at Texas A&M University–Central Texas. His decision to follow a career in physical therapy reflected his compassionate nature, as he wanted to help others recover from injury and lead better lives. His drive to assist others in their healing journey spoke to his kind heart and selflessness. His professors and classmates described him as a diligent and empathetic student, one who not only excelled in his studies but also made a lasting impact on those around him.

A Love for the Outdoors and Community

Beyond his academic and athletic pursuits, Cole had a deep love for the outdoors. He found solace and joy in the natural beauty of Belton Lake, often hiking the scenic trails or fishing with friends and family. He relished the opportunity to connect with nature, and his enthusiasm for outdoor activities brought him closer to those around him. Cole’s passion for the environment and spending time outdoors was an integral part of his life, and he frequently encouraged others to appreciate the beauty of nature.

Cole’s commitment to his community was evident in his volunteer work. He was a familiar face at local events, whether it was helping organize the Belton Fourth of July celebrations or mentoring young athletes at youth sports clinics. He loved to share his knowledge and enthusiasm for sports, encouraging young people to develop confidence, skills, and a positive attitude. His spirit of service was one of the qualities that defined him, and he touched the lives of many through his dedication to making his community a better place.

His passion for sports extended beyond his own involvement; he was an avid supporter of the Texas Longhorns and often gathered with friends to cheer for his favorite team. Whether on the field, at home, or in the stands, Cole’s enthusiasm and joy were always infectious.

The Tragic Accident

On the evening of July 20, 2025, Cole was involved in a fatal accident on a Belton roadway. Though the details surrounding the crash are still under investigation, local authorities confirmed that Cole was pronounced deceased at the scene. The tragic incident has devastated his family and left the Belton community grappling with the sudden loss of a bright, promising young man.

A growing memorial near Belton High School has been created to honor Cole’s memory, with flowers, candles, and track medals adorning the site. Friends, family, and even strangers have come to pay their respects, leaving heartfelt tributes to remember the young man who touched so many lives with his kindness and positivity. On social media platforms like X, tributes poured in, with many describing Cole as a “bright soul” whose life was full of love, positivity, and joy. One tribute shared by @Grhavit reads, “Cole left this world surrounded by love. He was a light in all of our lives, and we’ll miss him deeply.”

Cole’s Family and Legacy of Love

Cole’s family was the cornerstone of his life. He shared a special bond with his parents and siblings, often spending weekends enjoying family barbecues or outings by the lake. His humor, warmth, and lively personality made every moment spent with him special, and his family’s grief is deepened by the suddenness of his passing.

Friends recall how Cole made everyone feel included, no matter the situation. He had an incredible ability to make others feel seen and heard, and he was always there to offer support and encouragement. Whether sharing stories at a local diner or cheering on his teammates during track practice, Cole’s presence made a lasting impact. His legacy of friendship, encouragement, and kindness lives on through the memories of those who knew him.

As a young man on the brink of a promising future, Cole’s commitment to helping others extended to every aspect of his life. His passion for physical therapy, athletics, and community service made him someone who genuinely cared about the well-being of others. His legacy will continue to inspire those who carry forward his spirit of compassion, generosity, and selflessness.

Memorial Service and Community Vigil

A memorial service for Cole Hobbs is scheduled for July 28, 2025, at 3 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Belton, located at 506 N. Main St., Belton. This service will be a celebration of Cole’s life, and the community is invited to join his family in honoring his memory. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., allowing friends and family to gather, share stories, and offer their condolences.

In addition to the memorial service, the community is planning a vigil to celebrate Cole’s life and the contributions he made to the Belton community. The vigil will serve as a moment for Belton residents to come together, remember Cole’s positive impact, and support his grieving family during this difficult time.

In Lieu of Flowers: Donations to Honor Cole’s Legacy

In lieu of flowers, Cole’s family has requested that donations be made to a scholarship fund for Belton High School athletes or a local physical therapy program in Cole’s name. These donations reflect his love for sports, education, and healing. The family has expressed their deep gratitude for the overwhelming support they’ve received from the community, and they hope that Cole’s passion for helping others will continue to live on through these contributions.

Additionally, the Belton community and Texas A&M University–Central Texas have organized a memorial track meet in Cole’s honor. This event will celebrate his athletic spirit and dedication to track and field. The meet will serve as a reminder of his enthusiasm for sports, his dedication to his teammates, and his commitment to always pushing forward.

A Community Forever Changed

The tragic loss of Cole Hobbs has left an indelible mark on Belton and the surrounding areas. His vibrant life, kind personality, and passion for helping others made him a beloved figure in his community. While his passing has created a void that cannot be filled, the community’s support for Cole’s family and the tributes pouring in from all corners of Belton are a testament to the impact Cole had on the lives of those who knew him.

As the community gathers to honor Cole’s memory and celebrate his legacy, his story will continue to inspire future generations. Cole’s love for life, his commitment to helping others, and his infectious enthusiasm will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Kindness and Service

The loss of Cole Hobbs is a heartbreaking tragedy, but his life and legacy will continue to shine brightly in the memories of his family, friends, and community. His dedication to education, athletics, and helping others has left a lasting impact, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who were touched by his kindness, generosity, and spirit.

As the community gathers to honor Cole, they will remember not just the young man he was, but the inspiring legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of compassion, sportsmanship, and community spirit that will continue to resonate for years to come.