Obituaries
Ray graduated from Memphis’ Melrose High School in 1958. He attended LeMonye College of Memphis earning a Bachelor of Science degree (1962), and Memphis State College, earning his Master of Science in Education (1967). After completing his college studies Ray began his teaching career in higher education. He retired as a college professor in 1999.
He proudly served in the United States Air Force assigned to Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.
Ray enjoyed several hobbies, including reading, gardening, and wood-working. He was a man of great faith and integrity. He loved God, family, and country. Ray taught his friends and loved ones how to live life to its fullest by being hospitable, charitable, and fearlessly independent. Many of Ray’s charitable giving and acts of generosity flew under the radar of the community but were much lauded by his confidents.
Albert Einstein said, “…the value of a man should be seen in what he gives and not in what he is able to receive.” Ray was a man who gave to his work, family, friends, and acquaintances. His was a life that demanded notice, exemplified brilliance, inspired emulation shown brightly so that others paths were lit. In his career as an educator, he worked with passion, integrity, and energy. By his death, all the people who knew him will miss a highly intelligent, vibrant individual with rare friendliness and charm. Ray was a genuinely warm and wonderful individual. Our sorrow is lessened only slightly with the comforting thought that we had the privilege to know him.
Ray embraced death courageously knowing he would be reunited with his Lord, parents and predeceased siblings: James W. Cox, Jr., Rovella Brown, Frances P. Hawkins, W. Beatrice Jeffery, George W. Cox, Kathryne M. Brown, Charles E. Cox, and Kenneth M. Cox.
Ray is survived by his sister, C. Lucille Hill of Memphis, other relatives, and his devoted canine companion, Buddy.
A memorial service will be held in his honor on Monday, June 20, 2016 at 6:00 PM at Serenity Funeral Home, 1638 Sycamore View Rd., Memphis, TN 38134.
Final Resting place: Serenity Columbarium and Memorial Garden (Scattering Garden).
Serenity Funeral Home and Cremation Society, 1632 Sycamore View Rd., Memphis, TN 38134, Tel. (901) 377-3543
To send flowers in memory of Robert Ray Cox, visit the Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Service
20
Jun
1638 Sycamore View Road
Memphis, TN 38134
Cemetery Details
Location
1662 Sycamore View Rd.
Memphis , TN 38134