Laura Gillette Cox

Born in Austin in 1953 to Joy Clark and Richard Bliss Gillette III, Laura’s early years were filled with change as her family, including her brother Richard Clark Gillette, moved across the country, calling Kentucky, Upstate New York, Atlanta, and Montgomery, Alabama, home. She later attended the University of Alabama, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in microbiology, before continuing her education at Northern Illinois University, where she earned a Master of Science in biology.

A devoted wife, mother, and friend, Laura married David Wilson Cox on August 13, 1977, and together, they built a life filled with love, partnership, and memories. They raised two children, Ellen (38) and David Jr. (36), instilling in them a deep sense of love, the value of education, and justice. Laura was fearless in the face of a challenge, always standing up for what was right, and she brought warmth and humor to every situation. She was known for her generosity—always ensuring her children went to school with extra supplies for classmates who needed them—and for her ability to turn even the simplest moment into a good story.

Laura’s passion for science and education shaped her life’s work. She began her career as a teacher in 1976 and, after moving to Chicago, became a middle school teaching assistant in Buffalo Grove. Her talent and dedication soon led to her hiring as the first woman in the science department at Glenbard South High School, where she would spend nearly 40 years inspiring students as a biology teacher. She taught everything from foundational biology to AP Biology, and also served as a track coach, badminton coach, and scholastic bowl coach during her tenure. After moving back to Austin in 2011, she continued her work as a biology teacher at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School before fully retiring in 2019.

Beyond the classroom, Laura’s love for nature, animals, and adventure was evident in everything she did. She deeply appreciated the natural world, bringing home not just dogs and cats but a full menagerie of animals from her classroom—including hamsters, gerbils, crawfish, and even a tarantula. She found joy in tennis, hiking, camping, and traveling with her family, always eager to explore new places and encourage a spirit of curiosity in those around her.

Baptized at St. David’s Episcopal Church in Austin, Laura remained a lifelong member of the Episcopal Church. Upon her return to Austin, she became active once again at St. David’s, serving as a dedicated member of the Altar Guild. She was also a proud member of Tri Delta Sorority during her time at the University of Alabama. Laura was an active member of The P.E.O. Sisterhood.

Laura leaves behind a legacy of love, education, and inspiration. She touched the lives of countless students, colleagues, friends, and family members, and she will be deeply missed.

Laura is survived by her husband David Cox, her children, Ellen Cox and David Cox Jr., and her brother, Richard Clark Gillette.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 2pm at St. David’s Episcopal Church (301 E 8th Street) in Austin, TX. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her memory to the Alzheimer’s Association or the National Science Teaching Association.

"They say there's a tree in the forest

A tree that will give you a sign

Come along with me to the Sweetheart Tree

Come and carve your name next to mine."

- The Sweetheart Tree by Johnny Mathis

(a song Laura loved to sing to her kids when they were little)