Kenneth David Cox

Kenneth David Cox, 79, died peacefully on July 7, 2025, after a battle with dementia and related complications. Ken was born in Fort Myers, Florida, and took pride in being a fourth-generation resident of Lee County, Florida. His great-grandparents ran the lighthouse on Sanibel Island before it was automated by the U.S. Coast Guard, and his great-uncle Clarence's home, The Rutland House, can be toured in the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village. Ken was a devoted husband, a wonderful father and grandfather, and an enthusiastic and loving friend to many. He was quick with a story and filled every room with energy and laughter.

Ken attended Hargrave Military Academy and Wingate University. He began his career with Gilley and Tolley Oil Company. Later, he became a successful entrepreneur, owning and operating an HVAC business, and ultimately transitioned into a career as a successful realtor and broker in Southwest Florida. One of the great joys of his life was serving as Fire Commissioner for the Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District, where he and many others worked tirelessly for years to secure the construction of a new fire station on Matlacha. Fire Station #4 opened in 2019, and he considered it one of his community's finest accomplishments. He was an avid pilot and instructor at Smith Reynolds Airport in Winston-Salem for several years. Outside of work, Ken enjoyed spending time with his family, including his many, many four-legged furry friends. He also enjoyed spending time on the water in Southwest Florida and pursuing his love of cooking and food. Ken was a devout Christian who lived his faith every day. He enjoyed occasionally giving the sermon at his church in Pine Island, FL, and many of his closest friends, particularly later in life, were the result of his active work in the church.

Ken is survived by his wife, Judy; his three children, Michelle Larking (Ken) of Danville, VA, Beth Lucas (Charlie) of Charlotte, NC, and Trenton Cox (Allison) of Charleston, SC; eight grandchildren; and his stepsons, Josh and Chad Hundley. In addition, other family members include Ken's first wife, Linda Gilley Cox; his sister, Sandra Stockberger; nieces Lynn Loudis (Ray) and Heather Bruner; nephew Trey Stockberger; and many great-nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Carol C. Crawford and David L. Cox. His family and friends loved him dearly and will celebrate him forever.