Bartley Thomas "Tom" Cox

In Loving Memory of Bartley Thomas "Tom" Cox
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Late in the evening of Tuesday, October 15, 2025, Bartley Thomas Cox - affectionately known as Tom - passed away at the age of 84 after a long and courageous battle with illness.
Tom was born on December 13, 1940, in Miami, Florida, to William Bartley Cox and Thelma Bullard. After graduating high school, he proudly served in the United States Air Force for four years. His service began at Dobbins Air Force Base in Marietta, Georgia, and concluded with an honorable discharge at Snow Mountain Air Force Base in Fort Knox, Kentucky.
Following his military service, Tom dedicated over 30 years of his life to Florida Power & Light, where he worked as a lineman, foreman, and instructor in the ABC1 apprenticeship program. He was known not only for his strong work ethic but also for his kindness, mentorship, and integrity.
Tom had a deep love for the outdoors and especially enjoyed boating, fishing, and playing cards. Above all, he cherished time spent with family.
In his early years, Tom was married to Elke Opfermann Christiansen, with whom he shared three wonderful children. Later in life, he found love again with Debbie Shaver Driggers. Together, they shared 29 happy years of marriage, blending their families with love and grace.
Tom is preceded in death by his parents, William Bartley Cox and Thelma Bullard. He is survived by his brother, Ronnie Cox, and his devoted wife, Debbie Cox. He is also lovingly remembered by Debbie's sons, Chad Driggers and Chris Driggers, and by his own children: Gina Hendrick (Carl), Lisa Marsh (Tom), and Johnny Cox (Kathryn).
Tom's legacy continues through his eight grandchildren -Tia Currie, Breanne Currie, Bailey Taylor, Kate Himmelberg, Hannah Marsh, John Cox, Erin Parker, and Jasmine Grammer - as well as his seven great-grandchildren: Rhett, Baker, Canlyn, Presley, Oaklyn, JT, and Juniper.
Private services will be held at Palatka Memorial Gardens on October 27.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the American Diabetes Association, an organization close to Tom's heart.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at Bartley's Book of Memories page at www.j-ofunerals.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.