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Obituary
James Van Buren Cox, age 70, of Richards, MO, went to be home with the Lord on February 21, 2023, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, MO, with his family by his side. James was born May 31, 1952, in Humansville, MO, to Vernie S. Cox, Sr. and Vica Mae (Lingle) Cox. James was the middle of eleven children.
James didn't grow up to be book smart but could tear apart and fix practically anything he put his hands on. For example, taking an old wind-up clock that had quit working out of the trash, tearing it apart, and putting it back together so that it worked. He often made toys out of sewing spools for his siblings. After dropping out of high school, he entered the workforce, learning several trades such as carpentry, small engines, and electrical. He was also good at sewing and knitting and enjoyed teaching several family members. James held various positions in many areas of the workforce. Later he worked for Ramey's Village Market and Wal-Mart in Nevada, MO, before settling on his brother's farm in Richards, where he helped maintain the farm and did routine maintenance on his brother's semi. He loved to tinker. He loved to help anyone that he could, especially his family! He adored his children and grandchildren. James will be deeply missed by all that knew him.
James married Kristi Starbuck, and to this union 6 kids were born: Kristin Starbuck, Josh Starbuck, Ashlyn (Ryan) Hicks, Nicole (Bryan) Beavers, Austin Cox, and James Cox.
James is survived by his children; 9 grandchildren: Trevor, Teigan, Connor, Payton, Natalie, Quinn, Makayla, Aubryn, and Michael; sister, Verona Olmstead; brothers, David (Tricia) Cox, and Jerry (Cordia) Cox; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family.
James is preceded in death by his parents; Kristi Starbuck; brothers: Martin Cox, Tommy Cox, Archie Cox, Raymond Cox, Vernie S. Cox, Jr., George Cox, Edward Cox, and Lewis Cox; infant brothers, Enoch Cox, and Elijah Cox; and sister, VaLinda Baum; stepbrother, Gus Cauthorn; and several aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family.
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