Phillip Allen Cox Sr.

Phillip Allen Cox, a steadfast soul whose life echoed with kindness and humility, departed this world on July 18, 2025, in Chickasaw County, Mississippi, at the age of 81. Born on August 16, 1943, in Itawamba County, Mississippi, Phillip’s journey was marked by a profound love for family, nature, and faith.

Throughout his career, Phillip was a dedicated worker in maintenance at Jesco, starting his path when the company was still known as Penn-Tire. His unwavering commitment to his job was mirrored by his relentless pursuit of knowledge; he attended Itawamba Junior College’s welding program while working full-time and raising four children. Each accomplishment was a testament to his tireless spirit, supported by unwavering morals and values.

Those who knew Phillip often recall a man who relished helping others without a pursuit for recognition. He possessed a meticulous nature, ensuring that everything had its rightful place—clothes hung neatly in closets, household spaces exuding cleanliness—yet, curiously, he left his vehicles untouched by a wash. Inside, however, they reflected his character: immaculate and orderly, much like the heart of a man who found joy in the simple things. Nature called to him, drawing him into the great outdoors where he fished for crappie and catfish, hunted deer and squirrel, and cherished the serene beauty enveloping him.

Phillip found solace and strength in his close-knit family, his siblings serving as his dearest companions through life’s various seasons. Together, they experienced countless fishing trips, hunting adventures, and lively family reunions held biannually—a joyous celebration of life's bonds. Phillip’s love for music, particularly for the heartfelt melodies sung by Conway Twitty and Johnny Cash, imbued his life with rhythm, though his soul ultimately danced most vividly to the tunes of Dr. Hook.

A proud veteran, Phillip served his country as an Army SGT (T) E-5, exemplifying the dedication and courage that defined him. Upon retiring, he embraced a new chapter in life, holding Bible studies in his apartment, fostering faith and community among neighbors. Life revolved around three guiding principles for Phillip: God, family, and honesty. He opened his heart and home to many, taking in those who were not related to him by blood but by kindness and mutual respect.

Phillip cherished his role as a father and grandfather, with his children and grandchildren standing as his most significant accomplishments. Surrounded by family, including beloved children Melinda Hatley, Sherrel Clark, Phillip Cox, and Jordan Cox, he celebrated life’s milestones and victories, paving the way for future generations. His legacy is furthered by his cherished grandchildren, Chanda Clifton, Megan Weaver, Harley Hatley, Cason Cox, Caitlyn Edgil, and Caleb Garrett Cox, as well as great-grandchildren Anna Claire Zepeda, Hunter Bernard, Beaux Weaver, Jon Coble Stephens, Kaylee Jean Cox, Kholten Cox, and Jayden Cox and great-great grandchild, Holland Baker Humble.

Phillip is survived by his beloved children and their families, and by siblings Barbara Hill, Sharon Cox, Billy Cox, and Gearld Cox, and Tommy Cox. Special friends Michael Shane Foster, Sammie Dabbs, Patrick Dabbs, Dillon Dabbs, and Angie Stanford will also carry his memory forward, etched within the fabric of their shared stories and laughter.

He joins in eternal rest with his cherished parents; Eules Young Cox and Annie Edith Phillips Cox; brothers, Larry Cox, Ronnie Cox, and Dale Cox, and beloved children, Marty Cox and Tory Cox Plunkett, along with grandchildren, Emma Grace Plunkett, Hunter Dale Plunkett, and Noel Nicole Acevedo. Their reunion surely fills the heavens with warmth and love.

Phillip Allen Cox, in his humble yet extraordinary way, radiated goodness throughout his life. He will be profoundly missed but lovingly remembered, carrying forth a legacy of integrity, devotion, and boundless love that shall continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Celebration Of Life Service will be held Sunday, July 20, 2025 at 2:00 PM at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home with Bro. Randy Kennedy officiating. Burial to follow at New Chapel Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Seth Weaver, Drew Humble, Charles Clifton, Hunter Bernard, John Coble Stevens, and Zackary Cox. A visitation for family and friends will be held Sunday, July 20, 2025 at 12:00 PM at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home.

Memories and Condolences may be shared with his family at EEPickleFuneralHome.com.