Jay M. Cox, 71, of Dubuque, passed away on Tuesday, November 19th, 2024. He was a man known for his love of animals and always having a dog treat in his pocket.

Born July 8th, 1953, the son of James “Jim” Cox and Rosemary (Hoffmann) Cox, he spent his early years learning the value of hard work and the meaning of family from his parents. He married the love of his life, Barb Basten, on August 6th, 1983, and together they shared 41 years of marriage.

Jay worked a career as a draftsman and was enjoying retirement.  He loved meeting and talking to people. He spent many years volunteering his time at a local nursing home. He liked telling stories and especially loved telling “Dad” jokes. He also loved Native American history and for many years he would attend rendezvous during the summer months and teach classes about Native Americans in the winter. Jay was very artistic and would show this through the Native American artifacts he would make. He made life size knives, arrows and spears, along with miniature items that you would need to use a magnifying glass to see.

Jay loved food and socializing so you’d often find him at the Dubuque Farmers’ Market. He would be at both the outdoor and indoor market, talking with friends and handing out dog treats to every passing dog. You would also find Jay, several times a week, hanging out at his favorite restaurant, City Limits Family Restaurant in Maquoketa,  Iowa. Here he would have friendly banter with anyone that would engage, especially Ozzie. He was very close to his City Limits’ family, and we would like to thank them for making Jay’s last few hours extra special.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents, James “Jim” Cox, and Rosemay (Hoffmann) Cox; his in-laws, William and Darlene (Brownell) Basten; and his brother-in-law, James (Jim), Schlarman.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Barb; his two children, Dane (Chelsea) Cox, Dan Cox; and his three grandsons: Sanders Cox, Sawyer Cox, and Shelton (Chubba) Cox, as well as his fur grandchildren, Dusty, Kylo and Neeko.

Jay is also survived by his siblings, Linette Casavant, Steven Cox, Ronald (Thyra) Cox, Douglas Cox, Kyle (Barb) Cox, Lisa (Mike) Bruning, and many nieces and nephews.

A special thank you to the Dubuque Police and Fire department for their help during this difficult time.

A celebration of life for his close friends and family will be held at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque is assisting the family.