Our History

Myron Cole and Associates P.C. was founded in Roanoke in 1983 by Myron G. Cole, who recognized the small business owner’s need for an experienced CPA that is both reliable and affordable. The company’s original office was located in the old FNEB building in downtown Roanoke. The practice grew steadily the first few years along with its reputation for providing quality work. In 1984, Myron relocated the practice to the Old Southwest part of the city, where it still remains today.

In 1997, Myron hired James C. McIlwain (Jay) a Roanoke native and Roanoke College graduate to assist with the practice. Jay proved to be a quick learner and the two worked closely together for the next ten years expanding the practice. In the winter of 2007, Myron concluded that he no longer wanted to work the long hours necessary to run the firm and decided to sell the practice to Jay. The announcement was made and the firm changed its name to Cole, McIlwain & Company, P.C. The clients seemed delighted that the business was going to be passed to someone that they had come to know so well.