Gloria Theresa Cox Ard, 83, went home to be with Jesus on September 5th, 2023. Theresa was born on September 22, 1939, to Calvin Franklin Cox and Lillian Gertrude Ray Cox. She was a Daddy’s girl, always following him around the house, and trying to do everything he did. She taught herself how to sew, making her own dolls’ clothes and then eventually making her children & grandchildren’s clothes. She said her mom was the kindest person she ever knew. She was proud of her brothers & sister and was a loyal and devoted sister.
Theresa was a lot smarter than she ever gave herself credit, graduating valedictorian of her senior class. When her family tried to make a fuss over it, she would always say, “well that was a long time ago.” One month after graduating high school, she married the love of her life, Bill. Their love was and is infectious to those around them. But she said it best, “when I look at him…one lifetime just isn’t enough.”
They had three children that she loved fiercely, showing us all Christ’s love in the way that she loved those around her. She and Bill not only loved their own children well, but frequently volunteered with their church’s youth groups, ensuring that everyone they encountered felt at home. She was most proud of her grandchildren, never missing a ballgame or school program. Whether it was hours away or in the pouring rain, they were there, cheering them along. There were hundreds of cookies, butter cakes, and bowls of homemade ice cream through the years, so that there would always be a snack for whoever stopped by Mimi & Didi’s house.
Survivors include her husband of 65 years, Bill Ard; three children, Kerrel Ard, Julie Henry, and Shane (Tammy) Ard; three grandchildren; Meagan (Will) Robbins, Haley (Devin) Roe, Will Ard, and one foster granddaughter, Zoey; with one great grandchild on the way.
She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters (Maggie Lee Cox & Bonnie Morris), and two brothers (James T. & Allen Cox). Pallbearers will be Phillip Cox, Daniel Galloway, David High, Jay Kyle, Scotty Kyle & Brent Spears.
Her celebration of life will be at 2PM on Friday, September 8th at First Baptist Church, with visitation preceding the service from 12PM – 2PM.
Memorials may be sent to First Baptist Church, 31 W Washington Street, Pontotoc, MS 38863, directed to the Living Water or the Building Fund. Condolences may be offered at www.browningpontotoc.com.
She’d want us to conclude with a note that’s been on her refrigerator for years:
Calvary’s Love can heal the spirit.
