Joseph King Cox

Joseph King Cox, 67, died at home in Grand Rapids, Michigan on Tuesday, August 7, 2018.  Joe was born in Detroit and grew up in Fowlerville.  He graduated from Fowlerville High School in 1968, and then attended the University of Detroit, where he received both his law degree and bachelor’s degree.  He practiced law in Ingham County for several decades, proudly representing not only Williamston, Webberville, and many other local municipalities, but also anyone who walked in his door looking for help.  He was active in local politics, serving as an Ingham County Commissioner for several years, in various roles with the local Republican Party, and as an alternate delegate at the 1980 Republican National Convention.  For the last 16 years he owned and operated a number of Liberty Tax franchises in the Lansing area.  He also taught driver’s education for several years in the Grand Rapids and Lansing areas.  Throughout his life, Joe was always willing to help those in need. He was a lifelong member and volunteer in the Boy Scouts of America, earning the rank of Eagle Scout and helping his son and stepsons do the same.  He loved the Detroit Tigers, camping, fishing, and boating. His beloved grandchildren were his greatest joy and the center of his life.  His favorite thing to do was spend time with them—attending school and sporting events, giving them rides around town, going on camping trips, helping them with projects, and spoiling them in any way he could.  He was a kind, proud, and loving father and friend.  His children will miss the long conversations and advice about life, his guidance, and—most of all—his unconditional and never-ending love. He is survived by his children, Jessica Nixon of East Lansing, Elisabeth Cox of Chicago, Illinois, and Alexander (Emily) Cox of Erie, Pennsylvania; daughter-in law, Susi; his grandchildren, Alexis, Renae, Alayna, Joseph, Anessa, Molli, Clarke, and George; his siblings, Judy, Sue, Kathy, Jim, Tom, John, Steve, and Bill; and many cousins, nephews, and nieces.  He was also loved by many other family members, including his stepsons, Kyle and Alex, and his loving companion, Lynn Ball. He is preceded in death by his son, Joseph Tait Cox, and his parents, Joseph and Helen Cox. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Boy Scouts of America, Michigan Crossroads Council, 137 S. Marketplace Blvd., Lansing, MI 48917, or Ele’s Place, 1145 W. Oakland Ave., Lansing, MI 48915

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