James A. Cox

Jim Cox, aged 61, completed his earthly journey on October 31, 2023, at Providence Hospice Place in Waco. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at the Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Chapel in Waco. Visitation with the family will take place from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. in the Chapel, preceding the service.

Born December 15, 1961, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Jim is the son of the late Barbara (Sampson) Cox and the Reverend Allan Cox. He graduated from Robert E Lee High School in Tyler, Texas, and earned his degree from Stephen F. Austin University. In 1985, Jim married the love of his life, Melonie Rice, and together they embarked on a journey filled with love and devotion. During his time in the Air Force and in California, Jim and Melonie welcomed two children into their lives. They later returned to Tyler, Texas, in 1990, where they established their home.

Jim found fulfillment in his successful insurance career, earning multiple top recognition awards for his outstanding work. He was not only dedicated to his profession but also an active member of Harris Creek Baptist Church, and was an ordained deacon, exemplifying his commitment to his faith. Jim's kindness knew no bounds; he dedicated himself to helping others, living by the words of Colossians 3:23: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters" (NIV). Despite his battle with ALS, Jim displayed unwavering bravery, joy, and a continuous consideration for others, inspiring everyone around him.

Jim is preceded in death by his mother, Barbara (Sampson) Cox.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Melonie (Rice) Cox; his son, Brian Cox, and daughter-in-law Emily, along with grandchild, Canaan of Nashville, Tennessee; his daughter, Chelsey Anderson, her husband, Cameron, and grandchildren, Georgia and Allie of Waco, Texas; his father, the Reverend Allan Cox, and wife, Linda of Tyler, Texas; his sister, Holly Cox of Tyler, Texas; brother-in-law, the Reverend David Rice, and his wife, Celina of Shreveport, Louisiana; sister-in-law, Melissa (Rice) Railsback, and husband, Anthony of Tyler, Texas; as well as his cherished nephews and nieces. Jim also leaves behind the Harris Creek Life Group: Bill & Carol Neilson, David and Kim Littlewood, David and Cindy Milligan, Kevin and Garret Jackson, Sandy and Gretchen McCormack, George Cobb, and Peney Patton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Jim's honor be made to the ALS Association (donate.als.org) or Community Healthcare of Texas (Providence Hospice Place) at https://www.chot.org/give-today/. The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional ALS team at Olin E. Teague Veterans Center, Community Healthcare of Texas/Providence Hospice, and Jim's incredible caregiver, Tiffani Vela.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory on Jim's "Tribute Wall" at www.WHBfamily.com.