Samuel David Cox, 74, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at the Elizabeth House, surrounded by the love of family and friends.
A lifelong resident of Henderson County, North Carolina, Samuel was the beloved son of the late Herman G. Cox and Gertie Mae Ruff Cox.
Samuel faithfully served his community through his work with Henderson County Schools before retiring after many years of dedicated service. More importantly, he was a man of deep faith who devoted much of his life to ministry, loving people, and sharing the goodness of the Lord with everyone he met. His warm smile, gentle spirit, and caring heart made others feel welcomed and valued. To know Samuel was to know kindness, compassion, and friendship.
Music brought great joy to his life. He was an accomplished banjo player and the proud founder of the Ole Time Pickers Band, where he created lasting memories through fellowship and song. Samuel also possessed a remarkable talent for woodworking and could build or repair almost anything. He was truly a jack of all trades, always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.
Above all else, Samuel dearly loved his family. The memories he created, the wisdom he shared, and the love he gave so freely will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.
Left to cherish his precious memory are his loving wife of 19 years, Marilyn Edney Cox; his son, Tim Cox (Vee); his daughter, Julie Gilbert (John); his stepson, Donald Dryman (Lindsay); eight beloved grandchildren, Amber Heatherly (Donny), Pressley Cox, Garrett Gilbert, Dakota Gilbert, Sierra Gilbert, Wyatt Gilbert, Kasey Dryman (Christina), and Kaitlyn; two treasured great-grandchildren, Lilly Heatherly and Gracie Heatherly; one brother, Don Cox (Dallie); along with several nieces, nephews, and a host of dear friends whose lives were blessed by knowing him.
Though his family grieves the loss of someone so deeply loved, they find comfort in knowing Samuel is now at peace in the presence of his Savior. His legacy of faith, love, music, generosity, and friendship will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved him.
A memorial service will be held, Sunday, May 31, 2026 at three o’clock in the afternoon at the Big Willow Community Building with Wyatt Gilbert officiating.
Condolences may be sent to the Cox family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or C/O Jackson Funeral Service 1101 Greenville Highway, Hendersonville, NC 28792. Please include the name of the deceased on the condolence.