Robert L. Cox

Robert L. “Bob” Cox, 79, of La Plata, formerly of Sedalia, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital in Columbia.

Bob was born on July 11, 1945, in Morenci, AZ, to the late Herb A. and Etta Louise (Hayes) Cox. He grew up in Kiowa, OK, and graduated from Kiowa High School. On November 26, 1971, in Sedalia, he married the love of his life, Shirley L. Hickman. They shared 30 years together before her passing on February 1, 2002.

Bob proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, retiring in 1984 after a distinguished career. Following his military service, he worked for the Missouri Department of Corrections, where he also retired.

An avid outdoorsman and sports enthusiast, Bob enjoyed hunting, trains, and following his favorite teams. He found joy in simple pleasures and cherished time with his family.

He is survived by two sons, Robert A. Cox (Amy) of La Plata, and Danny L. Cox (Ashley) of North Carolina; a sister, June Cox of South Dakota; and three grandchildren, Karri Cox, Kameron Goldsmith, and Lia Cox.

In addition to his wife and parents, Bob was preceded in death by a sister, Sharon Ludens, and a brother, Dennis Cox.

Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, January 6, 2025, at Heckart Funeral Home in Sedalia. 

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at Heckart Funeral Home.

Burial with full military honors conducted by the United States Air Force will follow in Crown Hill Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Passenger Rail Heritage Foundation, in care of Heckart Funeral Home, or directly at www.aprhf.org/join.