A great soul, James Thomason (Jim) Cox, died Saturday June 10, 2023 after several months of compounding health issues. He was 78. Jim was born in Memphis June 23, 1944 to T.M. and Lucile Helton Cox. He was a 1962 graduate of Whitehaven High School and held degrees from the University of Mississippi(B.S.) and Memphis State University (J.D.). Jim always enjoyed working, beginning at age 14 in a fire station, which became a lifelong avocation. A brilliant lawyer, he had a long and successful career in healthcare law, including serving as an Arbitration Judge. A man of honesty, forthrightness and sound judgment, Jim made many friends in the legal circles, with members of the Mississippi Legislature where he was a highly touted and erudite lobbyist, and with theState of Mississippi Department’s of Health and Mental Health.
Jim loved his Ole Miss Rebels, New Orleans and the Gulf Coast, and dachshunds (including Lizzie, who survives). Jim will long be remembered as a fine Southern gentleman and a man of class with a heart of gold.
A celebration reception will be held from 4 PM -6 PM Friday, June 16, 2023 at Isom Place, 1003 Jefferson Avenue in Oxford. Selected remarks will occur at 5 PM by his past and present ministers, Rev. Warren Black and Rev. Chris McAlilly from Oxford/ University United Methodist Church and others.
Jim is survived by his stepdaughter, Cori Egan and husband, Brendan, and three grandchildren, Charlie, Paul and Maggie; his lifelong best friend, Warren Wiltshire; his special friend, Rachel West, provided unstinting help, support and love these last difficult months. His friends wish also to recognize the faithful service of Peggy Brantley to Jim. He leaves a great number of friends around the state and nation who respected Jim and found great joy in their friendship and fellowship with him.
Memorials may be made to the Memphis Fire Museum, 118 Adams Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103 or to your local animal shelter.
Holland Funeral Directors-Tupelo (662 840-5000) is honored to provide assistance to the family.
