Rollie Kenneth Cox

Rollie Kenneth Cox died peacefully, Saturday, April 20, 2019 in Lander, Wyoming at the
age of 94, surrounded by his four children.
Rollie was born on June 24, 1924 in Shoshoni, Wyoming. He was the son of Jesse
Clinton (J.C.) and Blanche Cox. Rollie grew up in Shoshoni until his junior year of high
school when the family moved to Lander. During high school, he was active in band
and athletics.
Upon graduation, in 1942, Rollie worked on the family ranch and other ranches in the
area. However, in 1944, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and headed off to World War II.
He spent most of his time in MacArthurs headquarters in the Philippines and Tokyo,
Japan. In 1946, he was discharged and attended Drake University in Des Moines,
Iowa.
It was during his time at Drake that he met the love of his life, Naomi Hare, and they
were married on August, 13, 1950, following his graduation. He obtained his first
teaching job in Oregon, but returned two years later to Lander where he spent the rest
of his teaching career, 36 years, at Lander Valley High School teaching math and
science.
Rollie and Naomis oldest daughter, Carol, was born in Idaho. The other three, Roger,
David, and Beth were born in Lander. He spent his summers instilling a love of the
outdoors in his children while hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping. His love of travel
took Rollie and his family over much of the U.S. Following his retirement, he and Naomi
travelled to Alaska and Japan visiting family and friends.
In 2003, three years after Naomis passing, Rollie married Darline Jackson, a mutual
friend who had also lost her husband. They had 12 years together before a debilitating
injury forced her to move closer to her daughter in Arkansas.
Rollie was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Naomi, his brothers Vollie Cox,
Ralph Cox, and his sisters, Maureen Cox, and Loraine Ocenas.
He is survived by his four children: Carol Ahmed of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, Roger
(Miyuki) Cox of Lander, David (Cindy) Cox of Lander, and Beth (Jim) Hefenieder of
Worland, Wyoming, nine grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren.
Rollie was a dedicated Christian and an active member of his church. He enjoyed
travel, gardening, and outdoor activities throughout his life. During Rollie and Naomis
49 years together, they worked tirelessly in many activities of the church and frequently
opened their home to Japanese students and other young people.
Burial was held at Mt. Hope Cemetery and a memorial service will be held in early June.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be mailed directly to Samaritans Purse, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607.
On-line guest book: www.hudsonsfuneralhome.com