Phillip Cox

He was born to Otho Lee “Joe” and Sara E. Cox on February 23, 1941 on Court Street in Old Bartlett. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Joe L. Cox of Bartlett. He was baptized in Bartlett Methodist Church as an infant. He was very proud of his Bartlett roots. His mother, brother and he attended Bartlett School for 12 years. His family moved to his grandparents farm, which is now StanKy Creek Park, at his age of 12. The old log home, known as the Moser house on Sycamore View, was built of yellow poplar logs by his great grandfather Clifton in the late 1800’s.

Phil was a member of the U.S. Army and competed with the Army Rifle Team in 1960 in Germany. He quickly developed a love for travel as the competitions were in either France or Germany. This love of travel continued with his wife of 45 years, Ruth Ellen. The two of them made many trips to Europe, England, Scotland, and Wales. They never went with a tour group, and the only reservations were the first and last night.

Phil spent 40+ years as a municipal bond trader. His excitement and passion for the business influenced his daughter, Ellen, to join him, where they worked together at Calton & Associates for the past five years. He made many friends in the profession that go back to the 1970’s. He had fun until the end.

Phil had a life-long love of animals and had two saddle horses and his 24/7 companion German Shepard named Blue, who stayed at his side continuously.

In addition to his wife, he leaves his daughter, Ellen of Iuka, one granddaughter, Sarah of Tigard, Oregon, and one grandson, Daniel of Iuka.

Memphis Funeral Home Poplar Chapel has charge with visitation Monday, December 13 from 4-7 pm and graveside services at Bartlett-Ellendale Cemetery on Tuesday, December 14 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.