Willard "Will" Robertson Cox Jr.

Willard "Will" Robertson Cox Jr. was born on September 8, 1942, in Houston, Texas. He departed this world on July 11, 2025, in Cleveland, Texas, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service, love, and community spirit. Will’s remarkable journey began in the Aldine area, where he grew up. From a young age, he was deeply inspired by watching his father run the family business, Cox Attic Fan Co. which later transitioned to an air conditioning business. This experience ignited a passion within him for fixing and repairing. He sharpened his skills and learned how to fix anything that needed fixing. He had no use for school, so in 1966, he joined the United States Army. While serving with the Army four years, he honorably received several commendations including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Army Commendation Medal. While stationed in Hawaii, God’s providence brought him together with the love of his life, Shirley Mae Wissman, a farm girl from Michigan who was teaching second grade at Kings School in Wahiawa, Hawaii. They married on August 15, 1969, at Kings Bible Church. This loving marriage lasted 56 years. After briefly returning to Texas, Will and Shirley continued their journey in the picturesque hills of South Carolina so Will could pursue his education at Bob Jones University. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree as Shirley continued her career as a teacher. In 1972 and 1973, they joyfully welcomed their two eldest daughters, Lanette and April. After graduating, Will and his family returned to Houston, Texas, where they welcomed their son, Willard in 1975 and daughter, Valerie in 1976. In 1977, Will moved his family to Cleveland, Texas, eventually building a home on five beautiful acres in the country. His professional career in law enforcement commenced with the Liberty County Sheriff's Office in July 1983. Will would later graduate from The University of Houston Law Enforcement, Class #36 in August 1984. Will continued his commitment to justice at the Harris County Pct 4 Constable's Office before joining the Harris County Sheriff's Office in October 1989. Over his 30 years in law enforcement, Deputy Cox served in various capacities, notably in the Detention Center and Parks Division, where he spent the last 15 years and 8 months of his career, culminating in his retirement in September 2013. Even after retiring from Harris County, he continued to serve as a reserve officer for 15 years, demonstrating unwavering dedication to his community and profession. His favorite quote, "Where there is a Will, there is a Way!" served as a guiding principle throughout his life. Alongside his law enforcement career, he owned Will Cox Roofing, a business he managed for 47 years, which continues today under the stewardship of his son, Willard Cox III. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Will was a man deeply involved in his community. He was a founding member of the Cleveland chapter of the Lions Club, contributing to initiatives that provided eye exams and glasses for children in need. His engagement did not stop there; he was also a part of the Shriners, the Optimist Club, a Mason, the vice president of the Kiwanas Club, Commander of the American Legion Post #393, and an active member of the church choir at First Baptist Church in Cleveland and then at Second Baptist Church in Kingwood, Texas. In addition, Will served a term on the Cleveland ISD school board in 1985. Will always loved music, and he shared his passion with the world through the release of numerous country music CD’s, including two gospel albums. For many years, Will sang faithfully every month at the Cleveland Healthcare Center, and enjoyed the stage whenever and wherever he could.

Will is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley Mae Wissman Cox; children Lanette Jean Cox Sikes and her husband Tracy, April Elizabeth Cox Nance and her husband Robert, Willard Robertson Cox III and his wife Victoria, and Valerie Jane Cox Robinson and her husband Paul. His cherished grandchildren, Jordan Cox, Zane Cox, Julia Cox, James Nance, Audra Nance, and Nathan Nance, will carry on his memory in their hearts. Will is also survived by his brother Joseph Cox and his wife Brenda, along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Willard Robertson Cox Sr. and Edith Martin Cox, as well as his sister, Mary Jo Cox Martin.

A visitation will take place at Neal Funeral Home in Cleveland, Texas, on July 17, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Following this, a funeral service will be held on July 18, 2025, at 12:00 PM, also at Neal Funeral Home. Interment will immediately follow at Brookside Memorial Park in Houston, Texas, at 2:30 PM the same day.

Willard "Will" Robertson Cox Jr. will be remembered as a devoted family man, a public servant, and a staunch supporter of community welfare. His legacy of kindness and integrity will forever resonate among those who had the privilege of knowing him.