Howard Thomas Cox

Howard Thomas Cox, passed away Saturday, December 27, 2025, at FirstHealth Hospice Palliative Care in West End at the age of 82.

A graveside service with military rites to honor Howard's memory will be held on December 30, 2025, at 3:00 PM at Love Joy Church of which he was a member, officiated by Rev. Casey Harris and Rev. Tommy Privette. The family will receive friends at the gravesite after the service.

Born on May 26, 1943, in Montgomery County, he was a son of the late Wade Oliver Cox and Eva Russell Cox.

After serving honorably in the US Airforce, Howard devoted himself to a career with Carolina Power and Light, from which he retired after 34 years of dedicated service.

Howard was a loving husband and father but also a grandfather and great-grandfather and will be remembered fondly by his family. His passion for caning chairs showcased his creative side, while his love for his tractor highlighted his connection to the land and his practical approach to life.

Howard is survived by his daughter, Kathy C. Williams (Keith) of Troy; sons, Sherman Cox (Sharon) and Russell Cox, both of Troy; grandchildren, Bryan, Cynthia (Jeremy), Chelsea (Kevin), Ryan (Courtney), Amber (Ethan), and Kristen (Tristan); nine great grandchildren, with two more on the way; and his sisters, Betty Lassiter, Becky Russell, and Shirley Webb, all of Troy, and Marie Thompson of Mt. Gilead; and sister-in-law, Juanita Cox of Hamlet.

He is preceded in death by his devoted wife of 57 years, Elaine Hicks Cox, and his brother, Joe Cox.

Memorials may be made to Love Joy Church, 1137 Substation Road, Troy, NC 27371.

Bumgarner Family Funeral Service and Crematorium is assisting the Cox family.