James Earl Cox

James Earl Cox (Jimmy) passed away on Saturday, December 16, 2017. He was born August 9, 1916 in Paducah, KY; celebrated his 101st birthday this past summer. Jimmy became a devoted Memphian when he moved here as a young man, graduating from South Side High School in 1934. Always interested in mechanical engineering, he was with NCR 34 years and became one of the first "1-800" numbers in the country to the first computer operators at local banks and hotels. After retirement, he became the Director of Al Chymia Shrine Circus, served on Director's Staffs for three Potentates & remained active in his Masonic Order and Scottish Rite. Jimmy was active in Memphis local government, community interests, Member of Christ United Methodist Church, and many charities called him a good friend and tireless worker, receiving countless awards and accommodations.

Jimmy was predeceased in death by his wife of 66 years, Ernestine, his son, Col. J. Robert Cox, an infant daughter, Sandra JoAnn, so many others he was often heard to quip, "I've outlived everyone." He is survived by his daughters, Gay Bond (James) and Cheri Shames (Jonathan), his daughter-in-law, Gloria Cox, his sister, Dorothy Hemphill of Baton Rouge, LA, 13 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great granddaughter, 1 granddog, and many generations of nieces & nephews.

A Visitation will be held at Memphis Funeral Home, 5599 Poplar Avenue Friday, December 22 from 5-7 PM with Graveside services held Saturday, December 23, Elmwood Cemetery at 11:00 AM. Memorials may be made to Shrine Children's Hospitals or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.