Quita Cole Obituary – Nashville, Tennessee A Community Mourns the Sudden Loss of a Beloved Entrepreneur, Mentor, and Friend
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE — The city of Nashville is reeling from the tragic and unexpected loss of Quita Cole, the beloved founder and owner of QC Kitchen, whose sudden passing has left a deep and painful void in the hearts of her family, friends, customers, and countless admirers throughout the community. Known far beyond her culinary accomplishments, Quita was a beacon of love, resilience, and empowerment—a woman who poured her heart into every dish, every conversation, and every life she touched.
Quita Cole passed away unexpectedly this week, sending shockwaves throughout Nashville’s tight-knit community of food lovers, entrepreneurs, and neighbors who had come to know and cherish her. While an official cause of death has not yet been publicly disclosed, what remains undeniable is the enormous legacy she leaves behind.
A native of Nashville, Quita was not only a culinary force but also a symbol of hope, especially for Black-owned businesses and women in the food and service industry. She opened QC Kitchen with a mission to serve more than just food—she served soul. With recipes inspired by generations of Southern tradition and family heritage, Quita created a dining experience that felt like home. Her fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, greens, and banana pudding became staples not just on plates, but in the hearts of her patrons.
But Quita was far more than her kitchen. She was a mentor, a motivator, and a community advocate, using her platform to uplift others. Whether she was hosting food drives, sponsoring youth programs, collaborating with other local businesses, or simply offering advice to aspiring chefs, her generosity knew no bounds. She had a gift for recognizing the potential in others and pushing them to pursue their dreams—just as she had pursued hers.
“She fed more than just stomachs—she fed souls,” said longtime customer and friend Andrea Hill. “Quita never met a stranger. She remembered your name, your order, your story. And she made you feel seen.”
Quita’s influence also extended into local media and culture. She was frequently featured in Nashville publications and on community panels, sharing her insights on entrepreneurship, food justice, and the power of faith and perseverance. Despite her growing profile, she remained humble, rooted in her mission to serve her community with love and excellence.
The loss has sparked an outpouring of grief and remembrance across social media. Former customers, employees, fellow business owners, and community members have been sharing stories of Quita’s warmth, her infectious laugh, and her unwavering belief in the power of good food and good people.
In a statement released by her family, they expressed heartbreak and gratitude for the immense love they’ve received:
“Our hearts are shattered by the sudden loss of our beloved Quita. She was a pillar of strength and joy, and her light will forever shine in the lives of everyone she touched. We thank the Nashville community for embracing her vision and her heart.”
Plans are underway for a public memorial service and celebration of life, which will be held in the coming days. Details will be announced soon by the family. In honor of Quita’s legacy, the family has also established the Quita Cole Legacy Fund, which will support young entrepreneurs, particularly women of color, who are starting food-based businesses in Nashville.
As the Nashville community grieves, it also gives thanks—for the food, the hugs, the conversations, the kindness, and the spirit of Quita Cole. Her name and her kitchen will live on as symbols of strength, flavor, faith, and love.
Rest in Power, Quita Cole.
Your table was wide. Your heart was fuller. You will never be forgotten.