Dr. E. Ray Cox Sr.

1941 - 2023

Dr. E. Ray Cox, Sr. was born January 10, 1941 in Greenville, NC to the late Clennie and Fannie Lee Cox. He grew up in the greater Greenville, Ayden communities. In 1970, he founded New Hope Baptist Church, Va. Beach, VA and served as pastor for 52 years. In 1980, the first phase of the building program was completed and in 1996 the E. Ray Cox Sr. Convocation Center was completed under his leadership. Pastor Cox served the following churches: Phillipi Baptist Church, Simpson, NC from 1963 to 1964; Star of Zion Baptist Church, New Bern, NC from 1964-1967; First Lynnhaven Baptist Church, Virginia Beach, VA from 1968-1970. He was predeceased by one son, Keith Cox. He leaves to cherish his memories his loving wife, Maxine Mills Cox; a son, Ervin Jr.; stepson, Tony Mills, six grandchildren; and seven great grandchildren. Dr. Cox will lie in state on Friday, March 24, 2023 from 2-6 p.m. with a wake to follow from 6-8 p.m. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, Mar, 25th at 11a.m. all held at New Hope Baptist Church, Va. Beach. www.beachfuneralservices.com