BYRON, IL ~ Bradley “Brad” J. Cox, 64, passed away with his loving family by his side in his home in Byron, IL, on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. He was born on September 16, 1960, in Rockford, IL, the son of David Cox & Lois (Newhausen) Miller. He married the love of his life Jan Young on May 16, 2009, at All Saints Lutheran Church of Byron, IL. Brad liked to be active, doing things like boating, golfing, and snowmobiling; he was even a member of the Snow Blasters Byron’s Snowmobiling Club. He loved to be in the water, especially Lake Ripley, doing activities like swimming, snorkeling, water skiing. Brad co-owned Spanky’s Byron Inn Bar & Grill for many years. To know Brad was to be his friend, he had a big heart and would give you the shirt off his back if you asked him. His truest passion was his family and grandkids, always making sure to spend time with them when he could. He is preceded in death by his grandparents Robert & Florence Cox; Mary & Francis Newhausen, and his aunt Mary Schnorr. He is survived and missed dearly by his loving wife, Jan Cox of Byron, IL; daughter, Casey Cox of Byron, IL; step-daughters, Ally (Andrew) Nobleza of Byron, IL; Jessica Young of Byron, IL; grandchildren; Brianna & Antonio; parents Dave (Karen) Cox; Lois (Dave) Miller; sister, Terry (Rick) Chastain of Machesney Park, IL; nephews, Bret (Brittney) Bokker; Brok Bokker; special friends Jim & Karen Bergagna; several step-siblings; and many, many dear friends.
A memorial service to honor Brad is scheduled for Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Farrell Holland Gale Funeral Home of Byron, IL, beginning at 2:00 PM. A celebration of life will also be scheduled for a later date, please check Brad’s online obituary for updates. Memorials are established in his name and may be directed to the family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
506 W Merchant St, Byron, IL 61010
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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