Phyllis Jane Cox

On January 12, 2026, at the age of 86, Phyllis Cox passed away peacefully in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Phyllis was raised in Colma, California and lived much of her life in the San Francisco Bay Area. After retiring from a career as a legal secretary, she later moved to Virginia.

Phyllis had a wide variety of interests. She danced professionally as a young adult and maintained this love, continuing to perform with seniors' dance groups into her seventies. She was an avid tennis player and golfer. She walked every day and was always on the lookout for garage sale treasures. Phyllis was a voracious reader, an animal lover (especially dogs) and a bridge enthusiast. Above all, she loved people. Wherever she lived or worked, she made friends, many of whom remained lifelong.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Henry and Darlene Prater, and her devoted husband, Ernest Cox III. She is survived by her sons, Mark Shaves and his wife Sarah, and Derek Shaves and his wife Lisamarie. Her grandchildren Arielle, Jonathan, Olivia and Helen brought pride and happiness into her life.

Phyllis's spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, as they remember her kindness, resilience, and the light she brought into their lives. A celebration of Phyllis's life will take place on a date to be announced at Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay, where family and friends will gather to honor the remarkable woman she was.

In this time of sadness, let us also celebrate the joy and love Phyllis generously shared with all who knew her. Condolences may be left online at www.altmeyerfh.com.