Bill Gene Cox, age 83, of Jacksonville, Arkansas passed away June 27, 2026. He was born on October 16, 1942 in Parkin, Arkansas to the late Fred Ulman and Hazel Genevieve Reyer Cox.

After graduating from high school in 1963, Bill moved to Indio, California, where he began his career with GTE Corporation (General Telephone & Electronics), a historic telecommunications company. In 1970, he returned to central Arkansas with his family, where he continued raising his daughters.

Bill enjoyed a distinguished 30-year career with GTE, serving in leadership roles and earning numerous awards and recognition for his dedication, integrity, and contributions to the company. More important than any accolade, however, were the lifelong friendships he formed with his co-workers, many of whom he considered family.

Following his retirement from GTE in 1993, Bill embraced time with his family, especially his grandchildren, and devoted himself to the hobbies he loved. Those interests eventually led him to a part-time position with Lowe's, where he worked at both the Jacksonville and North Little Rock stores. He genuinely enjoyed helping customers and getting to know his co-workers, who affectionately called him "Mr. Bill." His warm smile, kind spirit, and sincere interest in others made a lasting impression on everyone he met. The countless friendships he cultivated throughout his life stand as a testament to his generous heart and unwavering kindness. Simply put, Mr. Bill never met a stranger and was truly a friend to all.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Sandra Kay Cox; siblings, Arvil Cox, Sue Barham, Ray Cox, Carl Cox and several dearly loved pets.

He is survived by his children, Melissa (Chris) Masingill and DeAnna (Bo) Collet; grandchildren, Hannah (Jordan) Carlisle, Mia (Alec) Hartz, Canon Collet, Ava Masingill, great-grandson, Hank Calvin Carlisle, multiple nieces, great nieces and great nephews, and his cherished cat Kokomo.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of LifeTouch Health hospice team and to Dr. Ron Kuhn for the exceptional care, kindness, and support provided.

The family will have a private committal service, where he will be entombed at Chapel Hill Memorial Park, Jacksonville, Arkansas.