Danny Edward Cox

Danny Edward Cox, lovingly known as “Papa,” passed away peacefully at his home in DeFuniak Springs, Florida, on April 5, 2026, at the age of 76.

Danny was born on October 11, 1949, in Houston, Texas, to George Edward and Mary Jewel Cox. He spent his childhood in Crestview and Fort Walton Beach, Florida, where he later graduated from Choctawhatchee High School.

A hardworking and determined man, Danny was the proud owner and operator of Ed Cox Motor Company from 1995 until his retirement in 2018. He was known for his strong work ethic, honesty, and the respect he earned from everyone who knew him. He was truly a man of his word.

Danny’s greatest joy in life was his family. He shared a loving life with his wife of 43 years, Jane Cox, and was a proud father to Shannon and husband David Stephens, Jason Shaw, Holly Carter, Paul and wife Cameron Shaw, Joy Poole, and Camile and husband Dustin Burlison. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren: Austin Shaw (Carrie), Kaden Shaw, Ava Carter, Samuel, Brantley, and Jewel Burlison.

He is also survived by his sisters, Mary Jo Edwards and Evelyn Lowe; cousin Frank and wife Norma Jean White; special nephews Ricky Edwards, Jeffrey Scott Powell (Heather), Lance Youngblood (Courtney), and Dewayne Youngblood (Kathryn); in-laws Belinda Cottrill (Lew), Beverly Shaw, Fred Jones, Jimmy Jones (Pam), and Beth Jones; as well as nieces Michelle Streukens (Tony) and Lindsey Lawrence (Zack).

Danny was preceded in death by his parents, George Edward Cox and Mary Jewel Cox.

Danny had a deep love for the outdoors and the western way of life. He was passionate about rodeo and team roping, and he found great joy in riding horses, especially when sharing that time with his children and grandchildren at the arena. He took pride in teaching others to ride and rope, passing down skills and traditions that will live on for generations.

He also loved hunting and fishing, traditions he learned from his father and proudly carried forward. Some of his most treasured moments were spent at the bay with family, pulling kids on a tube, teaching them to ski, setting crab traps with Jane, and cooking fresh catches for everyone to enjoy.

Above all, Danny loved showing up for his grandchildren. Whether it was a game or a simple practice, he was there - watching, cheering, and supporting them every step of the way.

Known to many simply as “Papa,” Danny had a way of making everyone feel like family. He was strong, charismatic, and full of life, someone who could light up a room but never needed the spotlight. He was loving, funny, welcoming, and deeply respected. To know him was to feel valued, and to be loved by him was something truly special.

A man of faith, Danny was a member of Hickory Hill Baptist Church.

A celebration of Danny’s life will be held on Tuesday, April 7, at 2PM at McDonald Family Funeral Home, with Ronnie Dewees officiating. A time of visitation will immediately follow the service.

Danny will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but the lessons he taught, the love he gave, and the memories he created will live on forever.

In lieu of flowers, the family would be honored if you would make a donation to Hickory Hill Baptist Church in Danny’s memory (Hickory Hill Baptist Church, 1656 Hickory Hill Rd., Westville, FL 32464).