Nat 'King' Cole Wife Maria Cole Dies

Maria Cole died of cancer on Tuesday July 10 at the age 89.  She was the widow of Nat 'King' Cole, with whom she shared a lasting 17 years of marriage until Nat 'King' Cole passed away from lung cancer in 1965.   She is survived by her daughter Natalie Cole and twin sisters Timolin and Casey Cole.  

In a statement released after Maria's death, Natalie said, "Our mom was in a class all by herself.  She epitomized class and elegance and truly defined what it is to be a real lady. We are so blessed and privileged to have inherited the legacy that she leaves behind along with our father."

Maria met Nat during her solo singing career in New York City and married in 1948 in Harlem.  They continued to have successful careers.  

A private funeral service is planned to be held at Los Angeles' Forest Lawn Memorial.  Donations are currently being accepted to Nat King Cole Generation Hope Inc.