Michael McCormick Cox, a Southern gentleman, raconteur, yellow dog Democrat, Florida Gator lover, avid fisherman and incredible father and friend left this world on Friday, April 5th. Despite ongoing health issues and chronic pain, he faced each day with a smile, kind words and compassion for all. If you met him, you remember his outrageous stories (most of which were true) about a life well-lived.
The most important role in Mike’s life was as father to Kevin and Heather. He was lovingly attentive to his children, teaching, entertaining and supporting them in any way needed. He leaves a void in their lives that friends and family will try to fill.
Mike was a second “father” figure to many young men throughout the years. Lucas, Dustin, Jake, Brian, Qawi and David are just a few of the people whom he coached through life’s lessons. He was always there for them, loved them deeply and they knew it.
The many hounds and other rescued dogs throughout the years were also among his great loves. He loved nature, history, good barbecue, the UNC Tarheels, the Boston Red Sox and coaching and teaching anyone who needed help. He was a kind ear to those needing to talk, and a generous person who helped anyone he could. He could get backstage at ANY concert and truly saw “All the Best Bands.”
His good heart, strong spiritual beliefs, and his faith made him a friend to many. Born in Moore County on Feb. 16, 1949, and a native of Ellerbe, he moved to Florida at 5, living in Dade City for many years before moving to Southern Pines in 1995. He had many degrees, jobs and interests: radio and television announcer, teacher, recreation leader, salesman in many fields and too many other roles (cowboy, surveyor, storyteller, wild animal wrangler) to name. He served in the U.S. Army.
He greatly appreciated the many doctors and health care workers who helped him over the years, especially the support of Amy Bell and Dr. Mark Brenner. His friends at Health Innovations, Whispering Pines Prescription Shop, Harris Teeter in Carthage, Longleaf Animal Clinic were always available to help him.
Michael married Elizabeth Shonter Cox in 1979 and as he said, “You have never been bored!” He leaves behind Elizabeth; daughter Heather Roach and son-in-law, Seth (grandson Ian Roach and soon-to-be granddaughter Baylei Heath); his best friend, son Kevin Shonter Cox; son Dustin Euston; brother Steven Edward Cox (wife Beth, daughters Amie, Allie, Sarah and son Mark); beloved nephews Ryan and Patrick Price; sisters-in-law Mardie Shonter and Claire Shonter; and many nieces, nephews and grand nieces and nephews and blue tick hound Rango. He was predeceased by his father B.A. Cox, Jr., mother Mary Ann McCormick Cox, sister, Judith Cox Price (Norman “Jason” Price,) in-laws Martha and Richard Shonter and brother-in-law Richard Shonter, Jr.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date in Dade City, Florida. To honor Mike, be kind to one another, smile and live and let live.
Services are entrusted to Boles Funeral Home, Southern Pines.
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