John Michael Cox

John Michael Cox, 67, of Independence, Missouri, passed away on March 2, 2025, due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident. He was born on March 13, 1957, in Houston, Texas, to the late Francis “Frank” Leo Cox, Jr. and Mary Ellen (Dealy). John was the second of four children and spent his childhood in Houston, Texas. He worked on oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico after leaving school.

In 1979, John married Nancy Tennison, and they were married for 24 years. After moving to Missouri in 1980, he transitioned into the construction industry. For nearly 20 years, he owned and operated John Cox Construction, building quality homes in Eldon and surrounding areas. John moved to Independence, Missouri, in 2015.

John was baptized at First Baptist Church of Eldon, Missouri. He continued to be active in church throughout his life. He was a member of Beacon Heights Community of Christ in Independence, Missouri.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, John had a passion for working on motorcycles and cars. However, his greatest joy came from spending time with his children and grandchildren, who held a special place in his heart.

John will be remembered for his generous spirit and his willingness to help others. He never met a stranger and always extended kindness to those around him.

John is survived by two daughters, Sarah (Walker) Wilhoit of Blue Springs, Missouri, and Anna (Shawn) Schulte of Eldon, Missouri; three dearly loved grandchildren, Lydia and Eli Wilhoit, and Roman Schulte; and siblings, Kenneth Hixon and Valerie (Michael) Henderson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis “Frank” Leo Cox, Jr. and Mary Ellen (Dealy) Wunsch; paternal grandparents, Francis “Frank” Leo Cox, Sr. and Anna (Gill); maternal grandparents, Harry Dealy and Ellen (Bowles); brother, Francis “Frank” Leo Cox III; and grandson, Reign Francis Schulte.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in John's name are suggested to be made in care of the family.
 

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at First Baptist Church of Eldon, Missouri, with the funeral service beginning at 3:00 PM. Burial will follow at Greenmore Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements are under the direction of Phillips Funeral Home, Eldon, Missouri.

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