Lawrence Milbern Cox

Lawrence Milbern Cox, 90, of Makanda, passed away Wednesday, January 13, 2021, at his home.

Services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, January 16, 2021, at Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville, with Rev. Tommy Monroe officiating. Burial will be in Gentry Cemetery in Makanda. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Saturday, at the funeral home. COVID restrictions apply and masks must be worn.

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Lawrence was born March 10, 1930, in Carbondale, to Sherman and Rachel (Craig) Cox. He married Phyllis Hale on April 24, 1951, in Murphysboro. She preceded him in death on May 28, 1988.

He is survived by his sons, Wayne (Patty) Cox, Yogi Cox (Cathy Rushing) and Leonard “Boo” (Julie) Cox, all of Makanda, and Sherman Cox (Penny Walter) of Marion; 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; 2 great great-grandchildren; son-in-law, Harley Baltzell of Makanda; and his beloved dog, Bear.

Lawrence was preceded in death by his parents; wife; daughter, Cheryl Baltzell; brothers, Hubert, Otis, Dean, and Curtis Cox; and his other beloved dog, Pug.

He retired in 1997, as Night Watchman, from Giant City Park and after 32 years of service with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Lawrence was devout in his faith and became an Ordained Minister, preaching at East Liberty Christian Church as well as Shiloh Baptist Church.

He enjoyed traveling, going camping, horseback riding, and square dancing.

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