Mary Jacqueline Cox, fondly known as Jackie, age 88, passed away peacefully at Friends Fellowship Community Monday, December 14, 2020.
Born August 11, 1932, in Richmond, Indiana, to Paul William and Alice Mae Steins Runnels, Jackie was a life-long resident of Richmond and a resident of Florida for many years. After graduating from Richmond High School in 1950, she achieved the position of office manager at Sherman J. Brown Stock Brokerage Office.
She married Donald Thomas Cox at Saint Andrew Catholic Church on June 22, 1957. Together, they helped build Cox’s Supermarkets, Inc. and expanded the business to four locations across the community with Don’s family.
Jackie actively served others. She was instrumental in the formation of Seton Catholic Schools and its incorporation into the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. She was a board member for the Connersville Deanery within the archdiocese and a treasurer for the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) in Richmond. Jackie was also a quiet mentor and philanthropist.
Jackie held a deep passion for culture, art, and nature. She traveled broadly to embrace new experiences and used those experiences as inspiration for her garden and home. She was an avid reader and dearly loved music. Most notably, Jackie was enthusiastic and talented in bringing family and loved ones together. For decades, she hosted holiday celebrations for her extended family.
Survivors include her husband of 63 years, Donald Cox; daughter, Mary Lee (Bruce) Linginfelter; grandchildren, Joseph, Emily, and Claire Linginfelter; brothers, Gerald (Nancy) Runnels and Robert (Mary Anne) Runnels; nieces; nephews; cousins; and many lifelong friends.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Alice Stier; father; and brother, Arthur (Anita) Runnels.
The family shares their gratitude to the staff of Friends Fellowship Community for their supportive and compassionate care.
Fr. Sengole T. Gnanaraj officiated the Liturgy of Christian Burial for Mary Jacqueline Cox at Holy Family Catholic Church. Burial took place in Saint Andrew Catholic Cemetery. Arrangements were handled by Doan & Mills Funeral Home, 790 National Road West, Richmond, IN 47374.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating a memorial contribution to Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, 240 South Sixth Street, Richmond, IN 47374 or Circle-U Help Center, P.O. Box 491, Richmond, IN 47375.
Condolences may be sent to the family via the guest book at www.doanmillsfuneralhome.com.