Irene Cox passed away on July 21, 2026 at the Webb House surrounded by her immediate family. Irene was born on November 19, 1939 near Otterville, IL to Silas and Alma (Ponder) Pedigo. She grew up surrounded by the love of her family and was blessed with four older siblings: Faye Pedigo, Royce Pedigo, Gene Pedigo, and Danny Pedigo.
On July 29, 1956 Irene married the love of her life, Lyle Cox. Together they shared 70 years of marriage, building a life filled with faith, perseverance, and unwavering devotion to one another. Their journey may have started on a small Illinois farm but it took them all across the country, living in Illinois, Louisiana, Alaska, and Georgia before eventually settling in Tennessee in 1973. No matter where life lead, the home was always wherever they were together.
Irene and Lyle were blessed with two sons, Ricky Lyle, born in May 1958, and Kevin Lynn, born in October 1960. Like many parents, they experienced their share of sleepless nights, mischievous adventures, and moments that tested their patience, but every challenge was met with unconditional love.
Their sons remained one of their greatest blessings. As the years passed, Irene’s family continued to grow. She found immeasurable joy in watching her sons marry and raise families of their own. Her grandchildren became the light of her life, bringing her endless happiness and filling her heart with pride. She loved every second she got to spend with her family whom she loved so deeply.
Above all, Irene was a woman of steadfast faith. She dedicated much of her life to the Lord and helping grow the church founded by her father, who faithfully pastored the congregation until his passing. Irene devoted countless hours to supporting the church and ministry as well as sharing God’s love with others.
She and Lyle remained faithful, committed member of their church throughout their lives, living as examples of strength, compassion, and enduring faith.
Irene will be remembered for her loving heart and her unwavering faith that guided every chapter of her life. The legacy she leaves behind is one of love, commitment, and a life well lived. A legacy that will continue through generations of family she cherished so dearly.
Her grandchildren and great grandchildren were one of her greatest blessings and she loved each of them deeply. She had a passion for playing the piano and making birthday and wedding cakes for family and friends and was known for her delicious, homemade cinnamon rolls.
She is survived by husband Lyle Cox, both sons Ricky Cox and Kevin (Donna) Cox, grandchildren Heather (Calvin) Ramsey, Jasmine (Brent) Newby, Linsday (Brad) Hall, Brandon (Brandy) Horsley, and Jessica (Pat) Wade, great grandchildren Starr Cox, Shayli Wade, Laike Cox, Jaylee (Nick) Szucs, Makyra Cox, Gabriella Himes, Marshall Hall, Tyler Horsley, Amira Horsley, Makayah Webb, and Halie Burgess, and brothers Gene (Ruth) Pedigo and Danny (Wanda) Pedigo. A host of nieces, nephews, and extended family also survive.
The family would like to gratefully express its thanks to each of you for your kindness and support whether it be service, food, floral arrangements, or expression of sympathy during this time.
Funeral services for Irene Cox are scheduled for 2:00 P.M. Sunday, July 26, 2026 at Jesus Name Pentecostal Church, 233 Mullican Street, McMinnville, TN. Interment will follow at Burton-Ponder Cemetery in Dekalb County. The family will receive friends on Sunday from 12:00 P.M. until the time of service at 2:00 P.M. at the church. No visitation or service will be held at McMinnville Funeral Home.
Online condolences may be made at www.mcminnvillefuneralhome.com
McMinnville Funeral Home is honored to be of service to the family of Mrs. Geneva Irene Cox.
