Mr. Charles Cox, 76

Mr. Charles Cox, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed peacefully March 14.
He was born Dec. 24, 1946, to the late Charlie and Maggie Lee Smith Cox. Charles was a member of the Air National Guard from September, 1965, to September, 1971. He was a retired Air Traffic Controller working at the FAA Center in Hilliard, Fla., working mostly in the aircraft high-altitude sector. After retirement, he owned a used appliance store and held a contract with the Federal Government at Cecil Field Base. Charlie was an avid drag racer in his teens and early adult years winning many trophies. He was also just as passionate about the sport of fishing, both fresh and saltwater, and coming home telling the story of the “big one” that got away.
He is preceded in death by his parents, grandson, Austin Wayne Miller, and brother, Verlon F. Cox, nephews, Ricky and Buddy Hinson, and Jason Montgomery.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Mary Dianne; daughters, Diana Sheree Miller (John Gase), and Melanie (Bill) Sabatini; grandchildren, Mason Daniel, Lee Miller (Mason Marie), Patrick Sabatini, Hannah Sabatini, and Ashley Gase (Ray); great-granddaughter, Lianna Case; sister, Betty Vernon; sister-in-law, Joyce Cox; brother-in-law, Jeffery Jump (Janet) and Sondra Partin; many nieces and nephews; and his two beloved furry friends, (spoiled) Mickey and Ollie. His last wishes were to donate to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or a charity of your choice in his honor.
Services were held March 17 at Mt. Peasant Baptist Church Cemetery with the Rev. Larry Graham officiating.
Honorary pallbearers were John W. Gase, Jeffery D. Jump, Kendall R. Walls, and Lynn and Patricia Brannen.
Pallbearers were Mason Miller, Kevin Hulett, Tracy Hulett, Lance Partin, Shawn Powell, and John Lewis.
Wainright Parlor Funeral Home was in charge.