In his younger years, Jeff was rarely far from the water. He spent many summers at the pool, where he served as a lifeguard, swim instructor, and eventually manager at Chapman Pool. Those years left a lasting impression on him and on the many kids and families whose lives he touched there.
Jeff had a deep love for music of all kinds, and if there was a beat playing, you could bet he’d be dancing to it. He spoke his own special language—“Jeffonese”—and had a gift for making people laugh with his quick wit and one-of-a-kind expressions.
A die-hard UT Vols fan, Jeff proudly wore orange and cheered loud, win or lose. He enjoyed being outdoors—gardening, mowing, watching birds, his "boys", Blue and Whitey and playing golf. He never said no to a cold Bud Light or a good time with family and friends.
Above all, Jeff was a family man. His happiest moments were those spent surrounded by the people he loved most. He adored his wife, Donna; grandchildren, who lovingly called him “Papaw,” and he made sure they always knew how proud he was of them.
Jeff lived his life with happiness, heart, humility and authenticity. He never met a stranger, and his warmth left a lasting mark on everyone he met. He was proud of where he came from, proud of who he was, and deeply loved by all who knew him.
He will be missed beyond measure and remembered always for his kind heart, his laughter, and his unwavering love for family, friends, and the community he called home.
He was preceded in death by parents, Robert Theodore Cox, Jr and Vicy Ann Smith Cox and grandson, Jameson.
Jeff is survived by his loving wife, Donna Cox; daughters, Jacqueline Graham (Scott), Casey Cochran (Taylor); son, Corey Bunch (Korie); grandchildren: Sierra, Cade, Savannah, Charlotte, Colt, Katie, Remi; sister, Teresa Cox Allen (Bill); nephews: Sam Allen (Candace), Joe Allen (Emily), Dan Allen (Allison); cousins, Lesia, Julie, Pam; life-long friends: Tom Allen, Chris Vogt, Dennis Burnette, Greg Ogle and Danny Trotter and and his four legged "Boys" Blue and Whitey.
Friends and family are invited to come wearing UT orange, share stories, memories, and laughter in honor of Jeff’s life Saturday, August 30, 2025 from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM in the chapel of Berry Funeral Home, 3704 Chapman Hwy, Knoxville. A Celebration of Life service will begin at 6:00 PM officiated by
Pastor Richard Lee Richter.
Online condolences and fond memories may be shared with the Cox family at www.berryfuneralhome.com
