Pyong Cox

Pyong OK Cox (Yi), 88, passed away peacefully at home on November 15, 2024. Born under the harsh realities of Japanese occupation in Korea, Pyong was connected to the proud heritage of the Joseon Dynasty, a legacy stripped away during a time of upheaval. As a woman in an era of few rights, she endured profound hardship but faced every challenge with dignity, resilience, and unwavering strength.

On August 9, 1972, Pyong married her great love, SFC Donald L. Cox, a decorated Marine veteran of WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. Together, they shared two children, Donald II and L. Leona Frank (Cox). Before meeting Don, Pyong had two children, born in Korea, whom she lovingly entrusted to adoptive families in the United States at ages 4 and 6, hoping to secure for them the opportunities and education she dreamed of providing. Though she mourned their absence throughout her life, her love for them remained steadfast.

A proud patriot and member of the military community, Pyong supported her husband’s service and took great pride in the values and camaraderie it represented. She was honored to receive a Certificate of Appreciation for her support upon Don’s retirement on June 30, 1975.

Pyong began her American career at Craig Middle School, serving students with care and kindness. She later worked at Ft. Benjamin Harrison’s Guest House, where she cared for returning officers and their families. Her meticulous attention to detail earned her a promotion to housekeeper for the private residences at the historic Lawton Loop, home to generals and high-ranking officials. After the base closed, she continued to serve retired officers as an independent housekeeper, becoming a trusted and cherished part of their lives.

Pyong’s fearless spirit was evident in her love for swimming, nurturing everything that bloomed, and showing kindness to those in need. She was a devoted member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Palmetto Chapter #47, and proudly supported Don’s work as a 33rd Degree Mason and Shriner and her children’s memberships in DeMolay and Job’s Daughters.

The last 16 years of Pyong’s life were her happiest, softened by her granddaughter Julia Frank, whose laughter, love, and timeless bond brought her immeasurable joy.

A memorial visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 26, from 4:00 to 5:15 p.m. at Flanner Buchanan Geist (7855 Cork Road, Indianapolis, IN 46236), where high tea will be served in her honor. The memorial service will follow immediately at 5:15 p.m., with an urn present to commemorate her life and memory.