John Wiley Cox

John Wiley Cox, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on December 5, 1937, in Wichita, Kansas, John was the cherished son of the late Wiley and Ruby Cooper Cox and youngest brother to Patsy Dowell and Billy Cox. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Billy Cox. John's journey through life was marked by unwavering love, dedication, and a spirit of adventure. In July 1960, he married the love of his life, Sandra Kaye Ellis, in a beautiful ceremony in Durant, Oklahoma. Their 65 years together were a testament to their deep bond and devotion to one another. Together, they raised two wonderful children: Cindy, who married Alan McDaniel, and Karl, who married Kim Cox. John's family was his pride and joy. He delighted in the accomplishments and happiness of his three grandchildren, Ashleigh Kluck, Zak McDaniel, and Taylor Walker. His legacy continues through them and his three great-grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable joy in his later years. A proud veteran, John served with honor in the United States Marine Corps for four years, including a deployment to Lebanon in 1958. His commitment to his country was a cornerstone of his character, instilling values of integrity and service that he carried throughout his life. After his military service, John embarked on a dedicated career with the Oklahoma Gas and Electric Company, where he worked for 30 years before retiring at the young age of 55. John's work ethic and passion for his job left a lasting impression on colleagues and friends alike. John was a man of many talents and interests. A member of the 7th and Beech Church of Christ, he lived a life rooted in faith and community. His dedication extended beyond his church to the Experimental Aviation Association and the Patriot Guard Riders, where he found camaraderie and purpose. John's love for aviation was a defining part of his life. He proudly built and flew his own airplane, embodying the spirit of innovation and exploration. As an expert-level tinkerer, John was never without a project, always seeking to understand and improve the world around him. John's life was a tapestry of love, service, and adventure. His gentle wisdom, warm smile, and kind heart touched all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories and an enduring spirit that will continue to inspire those he loved. A private funeral service will be held to honor John's remarkable life, in accordance with his wishes. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in John's memory. John Wiley Cox will be deeply missed, but his spirit will forever soar in the hearts of those he leaves behind.