Nancy J. Cox of Vicksburg, MI, passed away peacefully with family by her side on October 1, 2026, days after celebrating her 89th birthday. Nancy was born on September 27, 1937, in Kalamazoo, MI, the daughter of Eugene and Helen (Harris) Shipe.

After graduating from Kalamazoo Central High School, Nancy worked at a movie theater, where a chance encounter over a candy bar brought her together with the love of her life, Ernest H. Cox. She embraced life as a Navy wife, supporting her husband throughout his years of service. They went on to share 68 wonderful years of marriage together.

Nancy dedicated her life to her family. Although she spent many years working at Center Medical Supply, there was no role more important to her than being a wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a loving and devoted grandmother who was deeply involved in the lives of her granddaughters, Adellie and Ava. Whether it was a recital, sporting event, parade, or ceremony, Nancy and Ernie were always there to cheer them on.

Nancy loved to bake and especially enjoyed hosting her family during the holidays. She was always making sure everyone had what they needed, famously asking if anyone needed a biscuit several times before finally sitting down to eat herself. She had a playful, silly side that brought joy to those around her.

Nancy had a lifelong love of horses and owned many throughout her life. She also loved taking road trips with her family, creating memories with Ernie and their children along the way. Whether traveling near or far, she cherished the time spent together as a family. Some of her favorite trips were out west to the Rockies and Hawaii.

She found great pleasure in the simple things, especially her flowers, trees, and birds. She loved tending to her flowers and faithfully fed the hummingbirds each day. Music was another favorite, and she was often humming a tune or walking around the house singing one of her little jingles.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Wayne and Maynard Shipe; her beloved son, Randy Cox; and her faithful furry companion, Sweetpea. Her memory lives on through her devoted husband, Ernie; her loving children, Lori (Todd) Drillock and Debbie (Jim) Ermatinger; her granddaughters, Adellie (Michael) and Ava (Joshua) Drillock, whom she called her “sweet peas”; and many extended family members, whom she adored.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Nancy's guestbook and share your favorite memory with the family. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Nancy’s name may be given to the Alzheimer’s Association. In keeping with Nancy’s love of sweets, we hope you’ll enjoy a slice of key lime pie or perhaps a chocolate milkshake in her memory.

The Cox family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home and Cremation Society, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269) 649-1697.