EJ Cox

EJ Cox passed away peacefully at his home in Pryor, OK, on March 20th, 2025. He was born and raised in Salina, OK, and graduated from Salina High School. EJ married Billie Ann, and they shared 42 wonderful years together filled with love, laughter, and adventures. He was a father, brother, uncle, cousin, and, perhaps most importantly, a grandpa, known fondly as Papaw.

EJ spent his early work years as an electrician before embarking on a life as a truck driver. He retired after working for Western, but even in retirement, EJ was always on the go. He drove the bus for his church, taking trips all over the place. When he was home, EJ and Billie often traveled. They went on bus tours and took a variety of cruises, visiting places like Alaska, the Grand Cayman Islands, and numerous destinations across the U.S. One of their favorite spots to visit was Branson. After retirement, they spent part of each year as "Winter Texans," living as snowbirds. During this time, EJ enjoyed spending time with friends and made several trips south to Mexico. He always returned home with special items, such as fruit and Texas onions, for his family to enjoy.

EJ was a 32nd-degree Mason and dedicated much of his life to volunteering and serving his community. As a Mason, he had the honor of nominating his granddaughter Ashley for Student of the Year twice.

He loved spending his years fishing, hunting, golfing, and fixing anything that needed repair. EJ cherished his time on the lake as the captain of the family pontoon boat. He enjoyed reading his collection of Western books and watching cowboy shows. A lover of animals, EJ had a particular fondness for dogs, who were always drawn to him.

EJ was a beloved father to his sons and daughters, and some of his favorite moments were those spent visiting with them. Despite battling a variety of health issues, he never let them slow him down. In his last year, he took on the role of a babysitter for his great-grandchild, Parker. A devoted Christian, EJ was also the spiritual leader of his family, often leading prayers before events or meals. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

Elvis is survived by his devoted wife, Billie Ann; his children, Tom Burchfield of Pryor, OK, James Cox and wife Shelia of Chouteau, OK, Tammy Lawson and husband Randy of Adair, OK, and Patricia Easterly and husband Mike of Pryor, OK; and his daughter-in-law, Cindy Steffens Parish of Owasso, OK. He was a proud grandfather to Devon Burchfield and partner Josh Hutchinson of Owasso, Cheyenne Flickenger and husband Chad of Kenwood, Ashley Keeling and husband Logan of Jennings, Dalton Cox and wife Emily of Owasso, Chase Lawson of Adair, and Kelley Lawson of Adair. Elvis was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren who brought him great joy.

He was preceded in death by his son, Marty Burchfield; daughter-in-law, Judy McCoy; infant son, Kevin Cox and infant daughter, Kimberly Cox.