Michael A. Cox, 67, of Chillicothe passed 1:01 p.m. Thursday, April 20, 2023 in Ohio State University's Wexner Medical Center following an extended illness.

He was born September 22, 1955, in Greenfield, Ohio, to the late William L. and JoAnn Hill Cox.  On April 26, 1975, he married his high school sweetheart, the former Chris Dicus, who survives.

Also surviving are sons, Matt (Jennifer) Cox, of Chillicothe and Eric (Leslie) Cox, of Chillicothe; grandchildren, Morgan Earwood, Olivia Cox and Lucy Cox; brothers, William (Anne) Cox, of Chillicothe and Timothy (Lisa) Cox, of Chillicothe; several aunts and uncles, including a special aunt, June Penn, of Greenfield; nephews, Chris Dicus, Cody Cox, Caleb Cox and Cameron Cox; and best friend, LJ (Becky) Kerns, of Chillicothe.  He was predeceased by his father, William L. Cox; mother and step father, JoAnn and Homer Phillips; and his faithful companion, his dog Maggie.

Mike was a 1973 graduate of Unioto High School.  He was a longtime employee of Carter Lumber and Big Bear.  Mike was a volunteer at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center and Scioto Valley Youth League Softball.  He coached Junior High Football at Unioto, was a former Athletic Booster President and was currently serving on the Unioto Athletic Hall of Fame Committee.  Mike was part of the Old Man Group for Unioto Sports.  He enjoyed camping and spending time with his family.  Mike was an avid Ohio State Buckeye and Cincinnati Bengal fan.  Above all, he enjoyed watching his granddaughters grow up.

A public graveside service will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, April 27, 2023 in Grandview Cemetery with Pastor B. Jay Dailey officiating.  There will be no public calling hours.  Arrangements are under the direction of the WARE FUNERAL HOME.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Unioto Football Boosters.  Your contributions can be mailed to Kingston National Bank 790 Western Avenue Chillicothe, OH 45601.

You may sign his online register at www.warefh.com