Judy Lynn Cox

Judy Lynn Cox, 72, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2025, in her home in Tucson, AZ.

Judy was born on July 17, 1953, in Effingham, IL, the eldest of the three children of William Orvil Cox and Eileen Marie Cox (nee Merryman).

At the University of Illinois in Champaign/Urbana, she earned a degree in computer science, putting her at the forefront of women in that profession. After graduating, she worked for the Federal Reserve Board, before eventually opting to be her own boss as an independent contractor.

For four decades, she lived in Chicago, where she made countless close friends and adopted two fluffy, affectionate, and much-loved West Highland White Terriers (Westies), Maisie and Dallis. With their enthusiastic backing, she became a patron of animal rescue and foster organizations. Judy’s love of art and art collecting also took root and bloomed in Chicago.

In 2016, after retiring from work, she moved with her dogs to Tucson, where she continued supporting groups that care for animals. She also volunteered there with Native Seed Search, a seed-conservation organization, and enjoyed exploring new restaurants and making new friends.

Judy was predeceased by her parents, pets, and younger sister, Billie Jean Cox. She’s survived by her younger brother, Charles (Chuck) Edward Cox, and a large and now heartbroken group of friends in Chicago and beyond. Few people Judy met didn’t, in fact, become her friend. She was loyal, funny, generous, and thoughtful. One of her favorite words — and a frequent password on her devices — was “Happy.”

A private remembrance will take place in Chicago later this year.