Jan (McElrath) and Don Cox

The families of Don and Jan (McElrath) Cox will celebrate their lives from 6:00 – 8:00 PM on Saturday, October 16, 2021, at Lake Ridge Chapel and Memorial Designers.  We invite you to sign their virtual guestbook, watch their life tribute and download their memorial keepsake folder to your device for printing here on this page.

Don was born on November 27, 1932, to Oscar and Lillie (Nix) Cox in Idalou, Tx. Don joined the Navy at age 18 and fought in the Korean war.  He worked as a machinist and was an avid collector of Hot Wheels, always on the lookout for just the right one to complete a set, as well as model cars.  After he retired, he spent his time going to garage sales, and flea markets. He passed on August 23, 2016, in Amarillo.

Jan was born August 15, 1941, to Morris “Mac” and Lorene (Thornton) McElrath in Carlsbad, NM.  She graduated from Monterey High School and attended Texas Tech.  Jan worked for the Social Security Administration for 31 years.  Following her retirement, she worked as church secretary for the Bellaire Baptist Church for several years.  She enjoyed working Vacation Bible School and was totally dedicated to all her grandsons’ activities.  She died October 2, 2021, at her home in Crosbyton.

They married on January 1, 1984, in Lubbock, Texas and they lived for their grandson, Matthew, spending time with him after school and never missing an event or a game.

Survivors include a daughter, Michelle (Rackley) Johnson and husband, Billy of Crosbyton; grandchildren, Matthew Johnson, and wife Harley, Justin Johnson and wife Amber and Toni (Johnson) Smith and husband Josh all of Lubbock; and great-grandchildren; Malorie, Preston, Aaron, Kyler, Raidyn, Tate, Morgan, Westin, and Rylee with one additional great-granddaughter on the way, Westlyn.

Jan is also survived by a sister-in-law, Cynthia Fisher, nieces, Jennifer West and Mary Helen Cornelius all of Fort Worth; and numerous cousins.

Don is also survived by a sister, Ann Dotson, and husband Glenn of Lubbock; a brother, Marvin Cox of Lake Texoma; and numerous nieces and nephews.

They are preceded in death by their parents; Jan’s brother, Mike McElrath; and Don’s five brothers and one sister.