James Haney Cox

1939 - 2025

James Haney Cox

December 19, 1939 - July 11, 2025

James Haney Cox, lovingly known as Jimmy, of Hickory, NC passed away on the morning of July 11, 2025. Born December 19, 1939, in Hickory, NC, to the late Ivanora and Burnandon Cox. Jim's life was built on service, family, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Raised in Hickory where he met his wife, Lyndia (Lynn) Cox, they moved to Columbia, SC, where Jimmy proudly served in the U.S. Army at Fort Jackson. After his military service, Jimmy began selling real estate and then moved into the food brokerage business. He worked with PYA and later founded his own food brokerage company. He called himself a "peddler of goods" with a twinkle in his eye. Jimmy later started CPlex, a small plastics manufacturing business in Lexington, SC, and operated it until his retirement.

He was a dedicated member of the Rotary Club, VFW, and Jamil Shriners. Alongside Lynn, he was an active member of Red Bank United Methodist Church in South Carolina. They cherished their Sunday school class and volunteered with joy. After Lynn's passing, Jim reconnected with and married his high school sweetheart Dea Busic Cox, returning to Hickory. Together they immersed themselves in First United Methodist Church, finding delight in mission work, church activities, and travel.

Behind Jimmy's warm smile was a heart that gave generously, often in secret. He had what he called his "God Fund" and joked with his pastor it never ran out. He used it for quiet acts of kindness-blessing neighbors, supporting those in need, and uplifting his community without seeking recognition. His selflessness touched countless lives.

Jimmy is survived by his daughters, Lynn Powell (Phil), Cris Howard (David), and Suzie Wilson (Chris); stepsons, Jack Busic (Nancy) and Stephen Busic (Shannon); sister, Melodie Yancey (Tommy); grandchildren, Justin Smith, Jess Powell, Lauren Knox (Zak), Zack Howard, Andy Ferez (Bailey), Nicholas Ferez, Sofia Ferez, Christopher Wilson, Eleanor Wilson, Waites Wilson, Jackson Busic, Caroline Busic, Lauren Busic, Ben Busic, and Jay Busic. Also surviving are great-grandchildren, Lilly Smith, Mason Smith, Levi Knox, and Lottie Knox. He leaves behind his special friend Connie Morrison. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ivanora Hicks Cox Puett and Burnandon Dewy Cox, stepfather Jerome Robert Puett; wives, Lyndia Marie Cox and Dea Busic Cox; sisters, Judy Eagle, Zara Burns, Aurbia Cox and Jeffery Allen Puett.

Jimmy's life was a testament to faith, love and quiet compassion. His family and friends will carry his warmth in their hearts forever. A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church in Hickory on August 2 at 11:00 AM with a reception after. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to his church or a charity close to Jimmy's heart, reflecting his spirit of giving.