Jo Cox

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Jo Cox, a beacon of kindness and wisdom, passed away peacefully on the 1st of January 2024, after a recent decline in health, at Webb City Health & Rehab in Webb City, Missouri. 

Born on Valentine's Day in 1926 in Waxahachie, Texas, Jo's gentle spirit and unwavering strength were her hallmarks throughout an admirable 97 years of life.

Jo was the cherished daughter of the late William Lee and Mary Ruth (Howorth) Dandridge. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Fred, with whom she shared a life full of love and devotion. Jo's legacy continues through her daughter, Cheryl Cox Beasley, and her dear friend, Connie Corbin. Also surviving are three grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

An avid learner and an inspiring educator, Jo earned a PhD in Physical Education, a testament to her commitment to personal growth and her passion for empowering others. Her career as a schoolteacher in Texas spanned many years, leaving a lasting impact on countless students whose lives she touched with her knowledge and compassion.

Jo's commitment to her community was evident through her active involvement in various organizations. She was a proud charter member of the Business and Professional Women (BPW), where she advocated for the professional advancement of women. Her faith was integral to her life, and as a devout member of the Baptist church, she lived her beliefs through her actions and demeanor.

Service to others was a cornerstone of Jo's life, illustrated by her years of volunteering with the American Red Cross. Her dedication to helping those in need was a reflection of her generous spirit and her belief in the power of community support.

Even in her leisure, Jo displayed a zest for life and a keen interest in the evolving world around her. She enjoyed playing computer games, embracing technology with the same curiosity and enthusiasm that she brought to all her endeavors. As we bid farewell to this remarkable woman, we celebrate the legacy of a life well-lived, filled with purpose, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of others.

Graveside services are 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 5, 2024 at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery in Joplin, Missouri with Chaplain Roger Flint officiating. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City, Missouri.