On May 25th, 2025, at age 89, James Dale Cox left his devoted family to begin his eternal life in heaven. Dale was born on June 26, 1935, in Clinton, TN, and moved his family to South Florida in 1971 for a warmer climate, job opportunities, and to better provide for his family. He was preceded in death by his devoted and loving wife (Joyce Foust Cox), his parents (Joe L. Cox and Rose E. Cox), and grandson J. Joshua Cox.  Dale leaves behind his devoted children, J. Alan Cox (Tracy), Susan E. Artz (Ray), G. Brian Cox (Kym), and Rebecca A. Swavely (Brad), as well as his beloved 10 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.
Dale was a graduate of Clinton High School (1954) where he played multiple sports and was very active in the FFA. He took great pride in the many ways he provided for his family and served his community.  He worked as a lineman at CUB, KUB, and FPL, was a long-time member of the IBEW, and served in the Tennessee Army National Guard. Additionally, Dale held numerous officer roles in IBEW, PTA and Booster Clubs, and coached several recreational team sports for his children
Dale enjoyed everything outdoors. Whether it was fishing, hunting, gardening, or "just watching" nature from the comfort of his porch, he was in his element. After retiring he and Joyce enjoyed summers in Clinton and winters in South Florida, focusing his time on family, gardening and a growing passion of saltwater fishing.
Those that knew Dale had a variety of positive things to say about his impact on their lives. His advice, guidance, wealth of practical knowledge, encouragement and generosity of his time to friends and community was endless. He valued hard work and dedication to family and friends, with expectations of himself setting the right example.  Having "never met a stranger", there was seldom a time when he wouldn't run into someone he knew or had a common friend with; and with genuine sincerity he always wanted to hear how everyone was doing and what they were up to.
Dale took pride in making unsolicited donations to various churches and charities. Some of his favorites include Second Baptist Church (Clinton), Deep Springs Baptist Church (Heiskell) where he was active with his parents in his youth, Black Oak Baptist Church (Clinton) where he attended with his family before moving to Florida, and St Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Dale was a fan of flowers in his yard and nature, but not so much for cut flowers.  In Lieu of flowers, he would be pleased if donations were made to one of his favorite churches or charity.
The family will receive friends on Saturday 6/7/25 from 11:30 am to 1pm, with services immediately following at Woodhaven Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens located at 160 Edgemoor Rd. in Powell, TN.