Ernest L. Cox of Midland, Texas, born March 25, 1933, in Rule, Texas celebrated his 85th birthday waking up in the arms of his Lord and Savior.Born to Minervia Grimes Cox and William Cox he was the youngest of eleven children. After graduating from Olney High School in 1950, Ernest went to work for the Wichita County Clerk while also attending Draughans Business College.In 1953, Ernest was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served two years stationed in California. After being honorably discharged from the army, Ernest returned to Wichita Falls and began working as a bookkeeper for Jiffy Foods. While working full time, Ernest attended Midwestern University where he earned an Associate’s Degree in Finance.In 1955, Ernest met Bettye Jo Lewis and they married in August of the same year. Their family grew to include three children: Jan Cox Hayes, Ricky Cox, and Sandra Cox Harwell.Ernest was transferred to Midland while working for FWA Drilling Company. Midland became the place that the Cox family called “home”. After leaving FWA Drilling, Ernest partnered with Clint Hurt to form Clint Hurt & Associates. In 1971, Ernest formed Betco Financial Services, Inc. He continued with Betco until his retirement.He was an active member of First Baptist Church where he served faithfully as a greeter and an usher. Ernest and Bettye Jo served as directors for the John Sunday School Department for 28 years.Ernest enjoyed being active and frequently took his family on camping vacations. He took an active interest in his children’s education – even serving as president of the Midland High Band Booster Club. Ernest found passion in tennis, golf, and woodworking He was an avid member of the Midland Tennis Association. Ernest enjoyed the game of golf. He joined Ranchland Hills Golf Club where he served as both Vice President and President. However, he found his true passion in his seven grandchildren.Ernest is survived by his wife, Bettye Jo Cox; children Jan Hayes, Ricky Cox (Celia), and Sandra Harwell (David) all of Midland; grandchildren Michael Hayes (Caitlin) of Greenville, SC, Kimberly Hayes Livingston (Ryan), Ross Cox (Barbara), Kellye Cox Walker (Zac), Todd Cox (Talia), Darci Harwell of Midland, Ethan Harwell of New Braunfels; six great grandsons and a great granddaughter on the way; and a sister, Mary Mayes. He was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers, and four sisters.The family will be accepting guests from 5:00pm-7:00pm on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home. Memorial services will be held at 1:30pm on Wednesday, March 28, 2018 at the First Baptist Church Chapel in Midland. A private graveside will be held.Honorary pallbearers will be the John Department Sunday School Class.In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorials be directed to Hospice of Midland and the First Baptist Church Benevolence Committee.Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com.,
