Lena Cox of Edmond, OK joined her husband in heaven on the morning of July 12, 2026.

Lena was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and the cherished matriarch of our family. She was known for her indomitable and adventurous spirit, glorious gardens, charming handmade dolls, numerous hobbies and crafts, unforgettable celebrations, delicious meals, and the radiant warmth she shared with everyone she met. She cultivated lasting traditions and a family rooted in love.

Lena Adkins was born January 21, 1942, in West Liberty, Kentucky. She later moved to the big city of Dayton, Ohio, and while working as a 17-year-old car hop, she met a handsome young manager at Frisch's Big Boy. They married on August 22, 1959, and later had two boys: Don and Mark. Lena and Rudy Cox were married for an incredible 64 years. They had the type of love that dreams are made of.

Despite being born in a Kentucky holler like her husband, she and Rudy built a life that allowed our family to escape generational poverty. This was a leap most could not make, and we are so grateful to them both.

Their marriage was one of adventure, filled with hard work and success while spreading a wealth of kindness and goodness to all they met--family, friends, or strangers.

Lena had a great sense of humor. She loved to joke and had a laugh that lit up a room.

At age 21, she opened her own business: Southwest Beauty Salon in Troy, Ohio. Lena continued working as a hairstylist for more than 50 years. She also enjoyed making porcelain dolls and later created a business combining her love for this hobby with her expert hairstyling talent, The Little Doll House of Vian, Oklahoma. Here she styled hair and sold her handmade porcelain dolls, conveniently located right next door to her husband’s business, Rudy’s Ribs.

A cancer diagnosis allowed Lena to spend her last months at home, surrounded by family every day until the very end. We will always remember her cheerful personality, her gorgeous smile, and her infectious laugh.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in the countless memories she planted in our lives. Her love, creativity, strength, and generosity will continue to bloom within her family for years to come. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Remaining to cherish her memory are her sons and their wives, Don (Lori) Cox; Mark (Tess) Cox; grandchildren, Kelly, Logan, Lindsey, Amelia, Madison, Brandon, Michael (Heidi); great-grandson Landon; siblings Virginia and Elmer, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Rudy Cox, and her sister Elvie.

Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Edmond Hope Center would be appreciated.