Donna Jean Cox, 71, of Bellevue, Michigan, passed away Wednesday, October 4, 2017 after a long and brave fight.
She was born October 9, 1945 in Battle Creek Michigan to Robert and Helen (Barton) Stratton. She was a lifelong Battle Creek resident. She married Marland R. Cox, Sr, on December 14, 1963. Together, they welcomed 5 children: Rhonda (Sergio) Vitanza, Marcia Jones (Stan Lewis), Marland R. Cox II (W.W.), Melissa, and Heather (Everett) Morris. They were blessed with 17 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband Marland Sr, a daughter Melissa, her parents, Robert and Helen Stratton, and sister Mary Thompson.
Donna was a hard worker. She started working as a youth, progressing from the Gilbert Hotel, going on to McKinley School, then Leila Hospital, to Banner Laundry and lastly at Keyes Davis Co. where she retired after 35 years.
Donna was a warm, compassionate person. When she saw a need, she sought to fill it. Nothing was too much or too little for her to give and she taught these values to her children. Donna enjoyed spending time with each of her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed reading, often falling asleep in her chair with a book beside her. Donna enjoyed the outdoors, sitting on the deck to watch the deer and wildlife.
Visitation is from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at Bachman Hebble Funeral Home, 223 N. Bedford Rd. on Monday, October 9th. Graveside Service 11:30 AM, Tuesday, October 10th at Ft Custer National Cemetery with Rev. Sergio Vitanza officiating.
Memorials can be sent to Tupelo Children’s Mansion, Attn Sponsor Relations, P.O. Box 167, Tupelo MS 38802-0167. Visit Donna’s webpage at www.bachmanhebble.com.