James Van Buren Cox

James Van Buren Cox, 70, of Richards, went to be home with the Lord on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin with his family by his side. James was born May 31, 1952, in Humansville to Vernie S. Cox, Sr. and Vica Mae (Lingle) Cox. James was the middle of eleven children.
James didn’t grow up to be book smart but could tear apart and fix practically anything he put his hands on. For example, taking an old wind-up clock that had quit working out of the trash, tearing it apart and putting it back together so that it worked. He often made toys out of sewing spools for his siblings. After dropping out of high school, he entered the workforce, learning several trades such as carpentry, small engines and electrical. He was also good at sewing and knitting and enjoyed teaching several family members. James held various positions in many areas of the workforce. Later he worked for Ramey’s Village Market and Wal-Mart in Nevada before settling on his brother’s farm in Richards, where he helped maintain the farm and did routine maintenance on his brother’s semi. He loved to tinker. He loved to help anyone that he could, especially his family. He adored his children and grandchildren. James will be deeply missed by all that knew him.
James married Kristi Starbuck, and to this union six kids were born: Kristin Starbuck, Josh Starbuck, Ashlyn (Ryan) Hicks, Nicole (Bryan) Beavers, Austin Cox and James Cox.
James is preceded in death by his parents; Kristi Starbuck; brothers: Martin Cox, Tommy Cox, Archie Cox, Raymond Cox, Vernie S. Cox, Jr., George Cox, Edward Cox and Lewis Cox; infant brothers, Enoch Cox, and Elijah Cox; and sister, VaLinda Baum; stepbrother, Gus Cauthorn; and several aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family.
James is survived by his children; nine grandchildren: Trevor, Teigan, Connor, Payton, Natalie, Quinn, Makayla, Aubryn and Michael; sister, Verona Olmstead; brothers, David (Tricia) Cox, and Jerry (Cordia) Cox; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other family.
Services will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday March 4, at Church of God (Holiness) in Blackjack. Visitation will be the hour prior to the service at Church of God Holiness, Blackjack. Interment will be after the service at Brush Creek Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be applied to James’ funeral expenses.
Online condolences may be left at: www.blandhackleman.com.