Patricia A. Cox

Patricia A. Cox, age 83, of Savanna, Illinois, passed away on Monday, June 22, 2026. A Celebration of Patricia’s life will be held on Sunday, June 28, from 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. at the Law Jones Funeral Home in Savanna, with a time to share memories and stories at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow in Spring Lake Cemetery.

Born on December 16, 1942, in Beardstown, Illinois, Patricia was the daughter of Lester Fair and Helen Thompson. On August 20, 1966, she married the love of her life, Larry Cox, in Savanna. Patricia and Larry shared a beautiful, complementary bond, often described by family as the perfect "Yin and Yang." They were a formidable pair, especially at the card table, where they loved playing together and notoriously "kicking people's butts." Larry preceded her in death on May 24, 2022.

Patricia was a dedicated and hardworking woman, spending over 30 years as an employee at Drives in Fulton, Illinois, before finally retiring in 2014 at the age of 72.

Known by those who loved her as a "feisty" with a bit of an ornery streak, Patricia was a no-nonsense woman who didn't share a lot with the outside world, but gave everything to her family. She was a true caregiver at heart. Not only was she a wonderful mother, but she also played a huge role in raising her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Patricia was an exceptional cook who brought her family together by hosting Sunday dinners and large holiday meals. She was famous for her incredible fried chicken and a special noodle dish of her own invention. When she wasn't cooking or caring for her family, she enjoyed playing casino games on her computer, catching up on her sleep, and offering her favorite, signature response to things: "Nope!"

She will be dearly missed by her three sons: Jeff Knouse of Savanna, Doug Cox of Savanna, and Greg (Krissy) Cox of Savanna; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; one sister, Sue Fair of Camanche, IA; and three brothers, Dave (Michelle) Brown of Yorba Linda, CA, Daniel Brown of Savanna, and Brad (Shari) Thurman of Rushville, IL.

Patricia is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Larry; her dear daughter, Lori Smith; her parents, Lester and Helen; and several siblings.