David Lincoln Cox

Born June 22, 1941, in Phoenix, Arizona, David grew up surrounded by a family of lawyers and Arizona Supreme Court justices. During his youth he served as a DeMolay President. Those early influences shaped a lifelong commitment to law and public service. He attended the University of Arizona in Tucson, earning both his undergraduate and law degrees. It was there he met the love of his life, Sandy Cramblet, beginning a marriage that would last 57 devoted years.

David briefly served as a U.S. Capitol Police officer and worked with his Father and brothers at the family law office Cox & Cox in Phoenix, Arizona. Shortly after graduation from law school he moved to San Diego County, where he spent 33 years as a Deputy District Attorney as well as a Federal US Attorney. He was named Prosecutor of the Year and created California’s first welfare fraud division—leaving a lasting mark on the state’s justice system. For the last 52 years he called Encinitas home, raising two sons while balancing a demanding career with a rich personal life.

David’s passions were as varied as they were enthusiastic. An avid sailor, he skippered Thistle 3442 for many years with the Mission Bay Yacht Club racing fleet. He loved tennis at the San Dieguito Tennis Club, distance running, oil painting, photography, aviation, and refereeing youth soccer. He and Sandy traveled the world, road trips with family and to Lake Tahoe were favorites. He never tired of sharing colorful stories from his family history, his youth, his courtroom and law enforcement days, and his adventures around the world.

Above all, David was known for his easy wit, kind heart, and readiness to lend a hand. A handsome man with impeccable taste, he found deep joy in family, the law, public service, and the simple pleasure of helping others. He volunteered generously at the Mission Bay Yacht Club and his United Methodist Church.

He is survived by his wife Sandy; sons Chris and Terry; grandchildren Sabrina and Tristan; brother Alan; and sister Noel. He was preceded in death by brothers Alfred and Stephen.

A celebration of life will be held this summer in Encinitas, California. Details will be shared with family and friends.

David’s legacy of integrity, humor, and quiet generosity will live on in everyone whose life he touched. David passed away on Friday, March 13, 2026 in Encinitas, California, at 84.