Joan R. Cox, 85, of Akron, passed away January 16, 2017. She was the daughter of Kenneth and Hazel Kohler, wife of Howard "Bud" Cox, and mother of Kathy Blair (Somerset, KY), Bruce Allen who she lost at birth, Gary Cox of Canton, OH, and Leanne Sprouse, Tallmadge OH. Included in her family were son in-laws, Bob and Paul. She left behind six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. All of us will miss her love, kindness, and care, but especially her ability to be ornery.

Mom grew up in Ellet and was head majorette in high school. After graduation she worked at the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co in the mail room. A short time later, she became a stay at home mom taking care of her husband, home, children, and all the pets. She continued her love of ice and roller skating and majorettes. She formed her own group "The American Girls" which included son and daughter. She also taught baton. She was Past Worthy Matron of Elletstar Chapter 565 and a member until it was dissolved. She was a member of Clearview United Methodist Church. She continued through life happy and content in her home until her diagnosis of dementia/alzheimers, which forced her to reside at the Gardens of Western Reserve the last 4-3/4 years. On Friday the 13th, Jan 2017, she fell and broke her right arm, to which she never recovered. Rest in Peace Mom, we will always love and miss you.

Calling hours will be held on Friday January 20, 2017 from 5-7pm and Saturday January 21, 2017 from 9-10 with the funeral immediately following at Newcomer Funeral Home 131 N. Canton Rd. Akron, OH 44305. Pastor Linda Bradley officiating. Interment Hillside Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the Alzheimer's Association or Hospice in her memory. A most loving thank you to Paul Sprouse, husband of Leanne, who has been there through thick and thin every step of the journey. Could not have done it without you. A very special family thank you to all the staff at the Gardens of Western Reserve and their hospice programs. Mom loved you as much as you loved her.