Billy Ray Cox

Billy Ray Cox, 85, of Traphill, NC, entered peacefully into the arms of Jesus at his home on September 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born January 8, 1940, Billy was the son of the late Conley Roosevelt “Velt” Cox and Ruby Smith Cox. In addition to his parents, he was reunited in Heaven with his beloved wife, Barbara B. Cox; longtime companion, Mildred Adams; and his sister, Ruth C. Evans.

Left to cherish his memory are his son and daughter-in-law, Jeffery and Janie Cox; his devoted granddaughter, Amber Bass, whom he lovingly raised and cared for as a daughter, along with her husband Joshua Bass; step-sons Mark Harrold and Ricky Harrold; step-grandchildren Keisha Harrold and Brandon Harrold; great-grandchildren Isabella and Liam; step great-grandchildren Dalton, Daylon, Alexa, and Alla; his sister Shirley C. King; niece and nephews Lora Evans, Jonathan King, and Stephen King; his lifelong best friend, David Royal; and close friend, Junior Crabb.

Billy lived a full life as a cattle farmer in Traphill and was also a dedicated beekeeper. He made many lifelong friends during his career as a telephone technician with Centel/Sprint, where he worked faithfully until retirement. A lifelong and devoted member of Union Baptist Church, Billy’s faith was evident in both his service and his daily life.

He enjoyed country and bluegrass music, and in his later years, he even took up line dancing. Known for his quick wit, humor, and generosity, Billy will be remembered for his devotion to family and his willingness to help others—whether through a kind word, sound advice, or a helping hand. His life reflected his salvation and the love of Christ.

Billy’s testimony is best expressed through Scripture:

“…Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me…” (Matthew 25:34–36, KJV)

“Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2, KJV)

“Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.” (Matthew 7:12, KJV)

The family will receive loved ones at Elkin Funeral Home on Monday, September 8, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm.

A funeral service to honor Billy’s life will be held on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 11:00 am at Union Baptist Church, with Pastor Steve Stolzfus officiating. Billy will lie in state from 10:00 to 11:00 am, prior to the funeral. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

The family would like to thank Union Baptist Church and Mountain Valley Hospice for their support.