Bessie Cox

Bessie Atheleen Cox, 95, of Decatur, passed away at 10:15 PM on Saturday, October 20, 2018 at Imboden Creek Living Center, Decatur.

Atheleen was born on December 7, 1922 in Ramsey, IL, the daughter of William A. and Cora E. (Shives) Bumgardner. She grew up in rural Ramsey. After completing the eighth grade, mom became a nanny and housekeeper for families in the Ramsey area. She eventually moved to Decatur to pursue the same type of work. Eventually, she met and married dad, Edward F. “Frank” Cox in 1942. Mom also worked in a local sewing factory during WWII. With the exception of a couple of years when she was a cook at Mound School, she as a stay at home mother who devoted her life to raising her children.

She was preceded in death by her parents, eight brothers and two sisters and our dad. Mom is survived by her loving children Robert E. “Bob” (Patricia) Cox of Decatur, Dennis E. “Den” (Judy) Cox of Wilmington, IL, Donna S. “Sue” (Bob) Pollard of Channahon, IL, and Debbie Cox Schwalbe of Decatur. She leaves behind 10 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. She also had many loving nieces and nephews and devoted friends from the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness. Mom touched the lives of many others, leaving an impact on them.

The family wishes to give a heartfelt thanks to Dr. McCormack, Linda Klemm, Dr. Sams, and Dr. Kola. We also appreciate the help of many loving and dedicated staff at Imboden Creek Living Center. You have all been truly amazing and caring during this difficult time. We also offer thanks to Laura and Terri, mom’s hospice nurses with Harbor Light Hospice; you have been a Godsend of support when it was most needed.

Funeral services will be 10:00 AM, Thursday, October 25, 2018 in Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home, Decatur. Visitation will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 PM on Wednesday, October 24 at the funeral home. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery, Decatur. Memorials can be made to the Watchtower Society or the American Cancer Society.