Obituary of Gary Edward Cox

Gary Edward Cox passed away on November 9, 2021, at his home. Gary leaves a lasting legacy as a caring husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend that will be missed by many. Gary was born to Monroe and Pauline Cox on January 31, 1950, joining his older brother Jimmy in the family. During his Junior year at Blountstown High, he met the love of his life, Judy Chastain (Cox) when he saw her across Lake Hilda after church one Sunday afternoon. They were married for 49 amazing years. Together they had 2 children, 7 grandchildren, 2 nieces, 2 nephews and 2 godsons. Their son, Eddie Cox of Panama City is married to Nicky Cox (Joyce) and has 5 children, Alex, Kiera, Andy, Maddy and AJ. Their daughter, Jennifer Cox (Grozdanoff) of Atlanta is married to Brian Grozdanoff and has 2 children, Ian and Laney. Their nieces (Tracy Cox-Stanton and Meredith Lanier), nephews (Steve Cox and Matthew Lanier) and godsons (Josh and Jared Lilly) will always remember Uncle Gary dearly, helping guide them through life and giving advice on the best flashlights to use. Gary loved nothing more than to spend time with his family. After graduating from Troy State, Gary began serving as an educator and administrator with Calhoun County School System, where he passionately taught many students for 35 years. He volunteered with the prison ministry system in Liberty, Gulf and Calhoun counties, leading many prisoners to the Lord. For many years he served as the Vice President of the Board of Trustees of Bethlehem Family Camp and also served on the board of Gulf Coast Electric Co-op. Gary loved spending time hunting and fishing at Iammonia Lake with his family and friends. He served the Lord through many church activities, lay witness missions, Sunday school teacher and mission trips. He was also a great guitar player and singer, filling the home with Jim Croce and worship music. Gary influenced and touched the lives of many: from his family to students, teachers, administrators, inmates, campers and church members. He was a great man that will be missed by many that rejoice in knowing he is healed in Heaven, playing basketball with his teammates that have gone on before and watching down on us from his new deer stand. He has served his generation well. Services to honor and to celebrate Gary’s life will be held 1:00 p.m., Friday, November 12, 2021, at Adams Funeral Home Chapel. A time of visitation will be held 5 – 7 p.m., Thursday, November 11, 2021, at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Bethlehem Family Camp (www.bethlehemfamilycamp.org), an organization that was near and dear to his heart and life’s work to bring others closer to Christ. Donations will be used to build the Gary Cox Memorial Lodge, ADA-compliant housing for those that are handicapped or disabled in any way. Adams Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be made at adamsfh.com 850-674-5449