Linda Kay Cox

Linda Kay Cox found peace with God on January 10th. Kay was born in Oliver Springs, Tennessee, in 1953. She grew up in Norris, Tennessee, where she was basketball queen and played the role of Helen in Exit the Body by Fred Carmichael.

She studied at the University of Tennessee and later became the local weather girl. After graduation, she landed a competitive position with IBM in their sales department. That opportunity brought her to the Tri-Cities, where she met her husband and gave birth to her only child, Philip Cox.

Kay later moved to Nashville to work with HCA, where she served as a Vice President on their government relations team. It was there that she raised her son and formed many wonderful friendships. She later moved to Washington, D.C., where she became a lobbyist. At one point, she was listed among the top 40 most powerful people in Washington in the healthcare field.

Wherever Kay went, she left a lasting impression and built strong relationships. Washington was no exception, and her neighbors there adored her. She retired in the Raleigh/Chapel Hill area for several years before moving back to Washington.

Unfortunately, dementia eventually took its toll, bringing her back to the Tri-Cities and ultimately ending her life. Kay was a wonderful mother, grandmother, and friend. She had an infectious smile and a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life. She carried herself with class, grace, and true Southern hospitality.

Kay was preceded in death by her mother, Reba Elliott.

She leaves behind her son, Philip Cox, and his wife, Sarah Morris Cox; and her three grandchildren, Charlie, Ella, and Kensi; two sisters, Nancy Boyd and Sandra Parsons; her niece, Carrisa Boyd, and her husband, Aaron Miller; her nephews, Kevin and Zach Wooten; her great-nieces, Morgan, McKinley, and Madison Wooten; and lastly her step-father, Carl Elliott.

A celebration of life will be held from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on Monday, January 26, 2026, at Gourmet and Company (214 E. Mountcastle Drive, Johnson City).

Memories and condolences may be shared via www.morrisbaker.com

Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 E. Oakland Ave., Johnson City, is honored to serve the Cox family. (423) 282-1521