October 24, 1936 – July 16, 2023
William R. “Bill” Cox, 86, Knightstown, Ind., passed away early Sunday morning, July 16, 2023, at his residence. He was born on October 24, 1936, in Noblesville, a son of the late Carl and Grace (Beals) Cox.
Bill graduated from Westfield High School in 1957 and earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Indiana Central College (now the University of Indianapolis). He retired from the U. S. Army following 28 years of service. He served during Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, and Grenada. He was a life member of Knightstown Friends Meeting, and enjoyed woodworking, reading, and IU sports.
Always a “family-first” man, Bill was a loving dad and grandpa. He never wanted to be a burden to his family, and always put others first. He had a great sense of humor, flavored with sarcasm, and could occasionally have a stubborn streak.
He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Debbie (Jeff) Wilkerson of Knightstown; grandchildren, Ashlee (Jeremiah) Ruddick of Knightstown, Jace Wilkerson of Knightstown, Trista (Jordan) Pruett of New Castle, and Taylor Cox of Carthage; great-grandchildren, Addison Ruddick, Emsley Ruddick, Avery and Hudson Cox, and Ridge and Paisley Pruett; stepdaughter, Judy (Jeff) Elliott of Greenwood; stepson, Matthew Taylor of Plainfield; his grandpuppies, Bentley and Asher; two sisters, Maedean Tower of New Castle and Suezanne (Bob) Bulthaup of Indianapolis; two brothers, George (Marilyn) Cox of Carmel and Norman (Elizabeth) Cox of Coldwater, Mich.; several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Rose Cox, in 2002; second wife, Linda Cox. in 2006; a son, Bill Cox, Jr., in 2002; two brothers, Steve Cox and an infant brother, Arthur; and two sisters, Ruby Hair and Becky Ellis.
Services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, July 24, 2023, at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service, Knightstown Chapel, with Bro. Jeff Elliott officiating. Burial will follow at Summit Lawn Cemetery in Westfield. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, July 23, 2023, at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be given to Knightstown Friends Church, 214 E. Brown St., Knightstown, IN 46148. Memories and condolences may be shared at hinsey-brown.com.