R. EARL COX III

Earl Cox, 92, of Fort Worth passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on May 26, 2026. As a devoted husband to Kay, father, grandfather and great grandfather, he lived a life defined by integrity, kindness, humor, generosity and strength.

Earl was born in Marlin, Texas in 1933 and his family moved to Fort Worth one week later. He graduated from Paschal High School and then from the University of Texas in 1955 with a BBA. Mr. Cox built a reputation as a respected businessman and civic leader who touched countless lives. From 1957-2010, he served as President of Cox’s Department Stores and related family realty company, and subsequently started SAVON Inc. and OFCO Office Furniture Co. Throughout his adult life he served on countless community boards, including Chairman of Harris Methodist Health Systems, Board of First United Methodist Church, Planning Commission City of Fort Worth, Lena Pope Home and Tandycrafts, Inc. as well as Board member of Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, Historic Fort Worth and a Director of the Ryan Foundation for more than 40 years.

Mr. Cox cherished his volunteer time with the Tarrant County Prison Ministry and Victory Temple Ministries of Fort Worth. A man of faith, he served as a Methodist usher for 56 years and loved sitting on the 4th row for Sunday services.

Aside from his professional and volunteer contributions, Earl treasured time with family, his Westie dogs and friends above all else. He enjoyed photography, golf and time spent traveling and in Santa Fe. He believed deeply in giving back and willingly worked in both leadership roles and behind the scenes helping others.

Earl is survived by his loving family—Kay, wife of 46 years; daughter Melissa and husband Nick Manos of Dallas, grandchildren Allie, Peter and wife Addie, and Michael Manos and special great grandson James; deceased son RE Cox IV; daughter Maria and husband Archie Stringer of Brandon, Mississippi; sister Carolyn Howard of Granbury; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A special thank you to his caregivers, especially Grace Eban who lovingly shared many hours driving Earl on tours all around his favorite city.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 30 @ 1pm at Arborlawn United Methodist Church, 5001 Briarhaven Road, Fort Worth 76109. Donations in memory of Earl can be made to Arborlawn United Methodist Church and Search Ministries.