John Stanley Cox

John Stanley Cox, beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, friend, software engineer and talented guitarist, passed away on May 6, 2023, at his home. He was 54 years old.

Born on May 7, 1968, to John R. Cox and Evalena Cox, in Galax, Virginia, Stan, as he was affectionately known, grew up in Alleghany County. He attended Alleghany High School, where he excelled academically and played football and golf. He built his own flat bottom boat in shop class in high school and loved nothing more than floating down the New River with family or friends, maybe catching a fish or two along the way.

After high school, Stan pursued a passion for computer science, obtaining a Bachelor's of Science from Appalachian State University and a Master's degree from Clemson University. He went on to become a talented software engineer and leader in that field, spearheading many teams throughout his career, doing work that he never could really explain to the rest of us non-engineers.

Aside from his professional pursuits, Stan was an accomplished musician and avid golfer and fisherman. He had a natural talent for playing the guitar and could learn any song "by ear." He played in two rock-and-roll bands in his younger years, Eastern Thunder in high school and Joe Friday during his early college years. Though neither band achieved international fame, they had a loyal following who 30 years later still remember the joy of watching them perform in regional venues. Stan continued to play the guitar throughout his life, including with a few more bands playing everywhere from Raleigh to Las Vegas.

In fact, Stan so loved music that he and Ramona opened the Rock & Roll High School in Apex, NC in 2012 to fulfill a longtime dream to share that love of music with future generations, giving kids a place where they could learn an instrument while playing in a band. Over the years, hundreds of kids had the opportunity to enjoy the experience of being in a rock & roll band and performing for an audience.

Sometimes you hear that folks “never met a stranger,” and this could not have been more true for Stan.  He could talk to anybody about just about anything, and some of his good friends would tell you if you asked him if it looked like rain you might get an in-depth lesson about exactly how the rain accumulates in the clouds and why it would or would not be raining on that particular day.

Stan was a man of deep faith and a devoted Christian. He found great comfort and solace in his beliefs, and his kindness and generosity towards others were a reflection of his faith.

Stan is survived by his wife of 29 years, Ramona Cox, and their two daughters, Kara and Kristen Cox, who were the light of his life. He is also survived by his parents, John R. Cox and Evalena Cox, his sister Gail Cox, his nephews Cory and Cody Brooks, and many dear aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.  Stan was preceded in death by his brother, Allen Dale, who died at birth, all of his beloved grandparents, and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Stan will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His warmth, humor, intelligence, and generosity left an indelible mark on those who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him. May he rest peacefully in heaven, playing his guitar and enjoying the company of loved ones who have passed before him.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 12, 2023, at Thomas Family Funeral Service at 11:00am, followed by a private graveside service at Pleasant Home Union Baptist Church for the family at 1:00pm.  Please make any memorials to your local animal shelter or Humane Society.

Thomas Family Funeral Service is honored to be serving the Cox Family.  If you wish, online tributes may be extended to the family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.

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