Dean Allen Cox

Dean Allen Cox, a cherished husband, father, papa, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Coweta, OK, on Saturday morning, April 26, 2025, at the age of 58. He was born on June 10, 1966, in Tulsa, OK to John Arnold and Lola Mae (Pitts) Cox. Dean's life was marked by his unwavering dedication to his family, his country, and his many passions.

Dean's early years were spent in Haskell, OK, where he graduated from Haskell High School in 1984. His thirst for knowledge and excellence led him to further his education at OSU and OU, earning a master's degree in business administration. Dean's professional journey began at Kimberly Clark in 1993, where he started as a production line worker and rose through the ranks to become a Safety Coordinator, a role he held until his retirement in 2016.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Dean served his country with honor from September 22, 1984, until his honorable discharge on September 18, 1992. His service was a testament to his deep sense of patriotism and commitment to the values he held dear.

Dean's life was a tapestry of diverse interests and accomplishments. He married his soulmate, Karla Renee Anderson, on April 10, 1999, and together they built a life centered around faith and family. An avid fisherman, Dean was involved with Major League Fishing and served as an official, sharing his love for the sport with others. His adventurous spirit took him to the skies as a pilot, and his wanderlust led him to explore the world, visiting places like Australia, Paris, Bangkok, Thailand, Holland, New Amsterdam, New Zealand, Mexico, and Germany.

Dean's passion for music was evident in his love for Van Halen and his talent for playing the guitar. He also played the trombone in a marching band, showcasing his musical versatility. A sports enthusiast, he played football and baseball in school and later found joy in coaching softball. His commitment to his community was reflected in his service as a volunteer fireman at the Stone Bluff Fire Department. Dean's zest for life was also seen in his enjoyment of water skiing and camping.

Dean is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Karla Cox, of the home in Coweta, OK; his daughters, Jessica Lambdin and husband Jerry of Glenpool, OK and Amber Benge and fiancé Kyle Chrysler of Broken Arrow, OK; three grandchildren, Evan, Hayden, and Gabriel Chrysler; his siblings, Michael Cox of California, Mary Sadler of Russellville, AR, Joanne Wineberger and husband Rob of McAlester, OK, John Cox and wife Jennifer of Haskell, OK, and Kyle Pearson of Stone Bluff, OK; his stepmother, Dana Pearson of Stone Bluff, OK; his uncles, Homer Cox, Ray Cox, and Dale Cox, all of Haskell, OK; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Dean was preceded in death by his parents, John Arnold and Lola Mae Cox, his great-nephew, Ryder Lee Warren, and five grandchildren whom he now holds in his arms.

Dean lived a life full of purpose, love, and joy. His legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him, and his memory will be a guiding light for generations to come.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Dean to The Griffin Promise Autism Clinic, https://thegriffinpromise.harnessgiving.org/donate.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 PM on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at Brown Funeral Home in Coweta, OK. Services celebrating Dean's life will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 2, 2025, at Central Church of Christ in Haskell, OK, with Curtis Cox officiating. Dean will be laid to rest with full military honors at Haskell Cemetery in Haskell, OK.

Family and friends may share memories and condolences online at www.brownfamilycares.com. The family has entrusted Dean's care and services to Brown Funeral Home & Cremations, 210 S. Broadway, Coweta, OK 74429, 918-486-5515.