Rita Ann Cox

Rita Cox, 65, passed away peacefully at her home in Charleston, IL on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

A celebration of life service will be at 7:00 pm on Tuesday May 27, 2025, at the Barkley Funeral Chapel in Greenup, IL. The memorial visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 pm on Tuesday at the funeral chapel.

Rita was born in Tuscola, IL on May 2, 1960. Rita married the love of her life Bradley Cox on June 9, 1978. She is survived by her loving husband of 46 years, Brad; her son, Nate; daughter-in-law, Michelle; grandsons, Logan and Liam; and her brothers, Rick (Dawn) Robinson and Jim Robinson. She was preceded in death by her stepfather, Jack Shepard; mother, Freda Shepard; sister, Jill Beals; and brother, Monty Robinson.

Rita worked at Dr. Fehrenbacher’s office for nearly 20 years before becoming a realtor with Coldwell Banker. Throughout her career, she took great joy in building meaningful relationships with coworkers, clients, and everyone who was fortunate enough to know her.  Rita had a deep love for her family and helping those in need. She treasured her relationships with her grandsons and visited them in Michigan often. She also loved playing tennis in Mattoon and meeting friends for lunch dates often. When not on the tennis courts, she loved to give back to her community through volunteering at the Wesley United Methodist Church and supporting those in need in the community. Rita had a gift for making everyone feel like a friend, she never met a stranger. Her kindness knew no bounds, and she lived her life reflecting Christ-like values. Her kindness and smile will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She was the most loving wife, mother, and grandmother (Mimi) that anyone could ever have.  She will always be in our hearts and the memories made will live forever.

In lieu of flowers memorial donation should be made to the Wesley United Methodist Church 2206 4th St. Charleston, IL 61920.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.barkleyfuneralchapels.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rita Ann Cox, please visit our floral store.