Ruth N. Cox

Ruth Naomi Cox, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 19, at St. Elizabeth Hospital. She was 87 years old.
Ruth was born in 1938 to Amy and Cary Shideler and was one of 12 children. She is survived by her dear sister, BJ Corona, of Florida.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Cecil R. Cox, a proud World War II Navy Veteran, who passed away in 2013. She was also preceded in death by her son, Gary A. Byrd, who tragically passed away in 2020.

A lifelong Christian, Ruth was a faithful attendee of River City Church and lived her life rooted in kindness, grace, and quiet strength. She found joy in crocheting and treasured time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was always happiest when surrounded by family.

In her later years, Ruth resided at the Indiana Veterans Home, where she was lovingly cared for prior to her passing.

She is survived by her children Richard L. Byrd and his wife, Kelly Byrd, of South Carolina, Kathy Burks and her husband, Robbie Burks, of Lafayette, Indiana, grandchildren Jennifer L. Byrd-Alvarado and her husband Nicolas Alvarado of Illinois, Daniel A. Byrd and Kelly E. Byrd of Connecticut, Amber Morgan, Henry Barnett and his wife, Lacie Barnett, Matthew Byrd, Brandi Squires and her husband, Spencer Squires, great grandchildren Aaron and Reese Alvarado, Colton, Landon, and Aubrie Barnett and Declan Squires. Ruth is also survived by her stepchildren: Ron Cox, Don Cox, and Rick Cox.

She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her beautiful heart, and the quiet love she gave so freely. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched and the family who will carry her memory forward with love.

Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the time of the service at 11:00 am on Monday, December 29, 2025, at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Blvd., Pastor Robby Bradford officiating. Interment will be at Sandridge Cemetery in West Lafayette, IN.

"Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord."

- Matthew 25:23