Nancy Jeanne (Long) Cox

Nancy Jeanne Cox of Plymouth, MN and Winter Haven, FL, passed away January 6, 2023, at the age of 87.  She is preceded in death by her parents, Norman and Charlotte Long, Minneapolis, MN; sister Mary (Long) Nelson, Lake Charles, LA; brother Robert Long, Bloomington, MN.  Survived by loving husband James O. Cox; daughters Linda Roal, Plymouth, MN; Wendy Roal (Jim) Warner, Orono, MN; son Wayne (Dione) Roal, Hays, NC; stepsons Darrell (Carrie) Cox, Raleigh, NC; Brian Cox, Hopkins, MN; grandchildren Colby, Shelby, Jesse, Elise, Brent, Ryan, and Katie; nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren, and many loving friends, including life-long friend Gail Olson.

Nancy was a classy lady with an enchanting smile and twinkle in her eye.  Her faith in God, gracious spirit, love of family, friends, and nature, and witty charm, were known by all who knew her. 

Nancy and her beloved husband Jim cherished their time together for 33 years. They enjoyed traveling the US, Africa, Europe, and especially enjoyed celebrating their Irish roots touring Ireland.  For years their sailboat took them on adventures around Lake Superior and sailing the Bahamas and Caribbean. Every year they hiked mountains and even glaciers.  They were active in a bicycle club and enjoyed years of mountain skiing and playing tennis together.

Nancy was a devoted mother and homemaker who loved her family and was so proud of her children and grandchildren.  She was always willing to help others through her many years of volunteering. She delivered Meals on Wheels, occasionally taking her children with her to set a good example.  She also enjoyed volunteering with Al-Anon; the Wayzata Community Church’s Annual Rummage Sale, and Information Desk; Central Lutheran’s Clothes Closet Ministry and served on the Amnicon Outdoor Ministry Board.

Nancy graduated from Roosevelt High School, Minneapolis in 1953. She was a life-long learner taking many Adult Education classes to further her interests and hobbies.  At age 50 she enrolled at the Minnesota School of Business to further her education where she then re-entered the business world. 

She loved music – playing the piano, singing and dancing. She was a member of the “Fun Band” in Florida for many years. Entertaining weekly at local care centers, giving older adults fun and music, was a rewarding and joyful experience for her.     

Funeral service 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 28, 2023 at Wayzata Community Church, 125 East Wayzata Boulevard, Wayzata.  Visitation 3-5 p.m. Friday, January 27 at David Lee Funeral Home, 1220 East Wayzata Boulevard, Wayzata AND one hour prior to the service at church.  In memory of Nancy, flowers accepted or donations may be sent to The Dignity Center, Minneapolis, or The Salvation Army.

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