John David "J.D." Cox, age 57, died peacefully in the arms of his wife Toni on July 3, 2022, at their home in Willow Springs, Missouri.  J.D. was born April 19, 1965, to the late Don & Bonnie (Bradford) Cox.  He graduated from Willow Springs High School in 1983 and joined the US Army in 1985 where he served in the 82nd Airborne for 13 years and reached the rank of Staff Sergeant.  He served in Desert Storm War in Iraq.  In his personal time, he followed his passion for parachuting and had completed over 26 jumps.   Upon his return to Willow Springs, he began his career as an Engineer for BNSF Railroad and after 25 years developed numerous lifelong friendships.

J.D. was happily married for 26 years to his wife Toni, who survives him.  He is also survived by a son, Dustin Brown & wife Kelly, two granddaughters Soleil and Aralyn, brother Scott Cox (Leslie), sisters Shawana Cox, Velma Haefeker (Jerry), Tawnya Cox (Kerri), and Lisa Green (Bill), many nieces and nephews and numerous other family and friends.   J.D. was greeted in heaven by his parents, Don & Bonnie; brother, Jim Cox; and other beloved family.

J.D. had a passion for hunting, golf, and creating with his hands.  He possessed a rare combination of skill, hard work, knowledge, and compassion.  He was an unexpected character to strangers, but those that knew him saw his kind heart, generosity, and devotion to his friends and loved ones.   He will forever be in their hearts and missed every day.

Visitation will be on Thursday, July 7, 2022, from 6:oo to 8:00 p.m. at Yarber Mortuary, Willow Springs.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 8, 2022, at Westside Family Life Center, with Pastor David Lovan officiating.  Interment will be in Willow Springs Cemetery, Willow Springs, MO.  Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Jim Cox Memorial Scholarship fund by contacting Lisa Green at 417-252-1199.