McKinley Cox, Jr.

McKinley Cox, Jr., affectionately known as "June," was born on September 14, 1951, in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Sadly, he departed from this world on October 1, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness and dedication to his family and community.

A proud 1970 graduate of Rosa A Temple High School, June distinguished himself not only through his educational pursuits but also through his remarkable career. He worked with esteemed companies such as International Paper Co, Vicksburg Chemicals, Armstrong Flooring, and Cooper Lighting. He spent his final years at People’s Drug Store in Vicksburg, where he thrived on bringing joy and encouragement to all those he encountered while delivering prescriptions. His warmth and genuine care for the people around him earned him a special place in the hearts of the community.

June was a man whose life was defined by his passion for helping others, particularly the elderly and underserved. His entrepreneurial spirit and amazing ability to connect with people contributed to his success and happiness. He always had a kind word or a good deed at the ready, embodying a spirit that uplifted everyone around him. His interests included car detailing and merchandising, but it was his loving nature that truly set him apart.

Above everything, June cherished his family and wore the titles of husband, father, Papa, and great granddad with immense pride. He is survived by his beloved wife of 27 years, Patricia Johnson-Cox, and his three daughters, Tammy (Derrick) Moore of Beach Park, IL, Erica (Pete) Luster of Zion, IL, and McKinda Wright. June was a proud father to six sons: Michael (Angela) Butler of Denver, CO; Quentin (Sydney) Jackson of Orlando, FL; Malik Abdul Shaheed of Seattle, WA; Derick Wright and Adrian Floyd of Jackson, MS; and Mac McKinley Cox of Vicksburg, MS.

He leaves behind an adoring family of twenty grandchildren, including DeAndre (Lillie) Moore, LaKeshia Moore, Devin Moore, Jordyn (Anthony) Lawrence, Kameron Luster, Jelani Abdul Shaheed, Mohammed Abdul Shaheed, Jennah Abdul Shaheed, Makaliah Abdul Shaheed, Lakendrick Scott, John Jackson, Isaac Butler, Isaiah Butler, Michael Butler, Jr., Isis Cabrera, Mila Jackson, Destiny Wright, McKayla Harris, Ryleigh Harris, and Kari Day Wych. June's heart swelled with pride for his three great-grandsons, Joshua Stewart, Derrick Moore II, and Hezekiah Lawrence.

June cherished his relationships with his siblings, including his twin sister, Maxine “Sissy” (Armon) Wilson, and Sherry “Woo” (Willie Earl) Young, both of Vicksburg, MS. He is also survived by his brother, Eddie (Ruby) Graves of Vicksburg, MS, two nieces, Yolanda Myles and LaTarsha (Alex) Smith, and a great niece, Justice Williams, alongside three great-nephews Justin Myles, Kayden Ross, and Ashlon Brown, as well as two great-great nephews Brysen Williams and Javien Christmon, all from Vicksburg, MS.

He shared an unbreakable bond with his devoted cousin and brother, Freddie Lee (Gidget) Harris, and treasured lifelong friendships with Percy Shorter, John Shorter, John Wesley Williams, Willie Cox, Alvin Myles, and Cutis Anderson.

McKinley was preceded in death by his father, McKinley Cox, Sr., and his mother, Camille Harris-Cox, as well as his grandparents and his beloved oldest sister, Carolyn Ann Myles. He was also mourned by the loss of his sister, Mary Graves, his niece, ShaRonda Williams, his beloved cousin, Eric Harris, his best friend, Henry "Red” Butler, and his mother-in-love, Juanita Johnson.

As we gather to celebrate the life of McKinley Cox, Jr., may we remember him for his boundless love for his family, his unwavering commitment to his community, and the warm, infectious spirit that touched so many lives. His memory and legacy will be cherished by all who knew him.

A visitation will be held on October 11, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM at C J Williams Mortuary Center, located at 1625 Monroe Street, Vicksburg, MS. A Celebration of Life service will take place on October 12, 2024, at Ardis Williams City Auditorium, beginning at 3:00 PM.