Ruth Francis Wilson Cox

Ruth Francis (Wilson) Cox, age 88, went to be with the Lord on August 28, 2025, peacefully at her home, surrounded by family and friends. 

She was born on November 2, 1936, in Owenton, Kentucky, to the late John Monroe Wilson and Lillian Wilhoite Thurman. Ruth lived a long and beautiful life devoted to her family, her faith, and her community. She was known for her gentle spirit, her quiet strength, and the kindness she showed to everyone she met. Those blessed to know her will remember her as someone who always put others first, found joy in life’s simple moments, and loved a good joke and a hearty laugh. 

Ruth cherished her family above all. She was preceded in death by her husband, Russell Cox; her son, Derek Cox; her son-in-law, Brad Robinson; and her siblings: Eula May Botkins, Mary Lee McCann, Martha B. Brock, James Lewis Wilson, John Wilson Jr., Paul Wilson, Carter Wilson, Hubert Wilson, Clarence Wilson, Christine Wilson, R.J. Wilson, and Porter Wilson. 

She is survived by her children: Mark Cox, Staria Cox Robinson, and Tonia Cox Kennedy (George); her grandchildren: Clif Hatton (Elizabeth), Cory Hatton (Emily), and Skylar Robinson; her great-grandchildren: Felicity Hatton and Henry Hatton; as well as several cousins, nieces, and nephews. 

Ruth worked for many years as a hairdresser in Frankfort, Kentucky, where she touched the lives of countless clients with her talent, care, and friendly spirit. She also volunteered her time at Frankfort Hospital, giving back to her community in meaningful ways. Ruth loved reading her Bible and mystery books, going on “girl trips,” and keeping a meticulously beautiful home. She treasured spending time with her Sunday School classmates and enjoyed ballroom dancing with her special friend, Bill Landeck. 

Ruth’s legacy is one of love, compassion, faith, and laughter. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who knew her. 

Visitation will be held at Clark Legacy Center, Versailles Road, Frankfort, Kentucky, on Monday, September 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Funeral services, officiated by Pastor Rusty Fitzpatrick, will follow at 1:00 p.m., with a graveside service immediately following the funeral. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Calvary Baptist Church in Frankfort, Kentucky, or St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.