Deborah Ruth Jacob Cox

Deborah Ruth Jacob Cox, age 71 of Lewisville, NC, passed away on January 17, 2026, surrounded by her family. Debbie was born on November 22, 1954, in Bridgeport, CT to George and Ruth Jacob. She was a graduate of Sycamore High School in Montgomery, OH and the University of Kentucky. Deborah was first and foremost a mother, grandmother (Mimi), and a wonderful, dedicated wife of 49 years. She and her husband Tom were together for 53 years, having met in college. Debbie was a gentle, thoughtful person, always reflecting on the issues and challenges of those she loved, guided by a deep sense of care and intention for making decisions that felt right. She was steadfast in her devotion to offer a sympathetic ear and advice to her daughters. Debbie never passed up an opportunity to spend time with her family. She adored her grandchildren and found great happiness in watching and hearing about their many adventures. Debbie enjoyed gardening and flowers—a love she instilled in and shared with her daughters; reading novels—one of her favorite things was a touching story that lingered long after the last page; she relished being outside—often found passing warm afternoons on the front porch with her husband; and she enjoyed following current events. She liked watching all college basketball, volleyball games, tennis matches, and golf. She loved her Tar Heels and Wolfpack, as well as cheering on the Carolina Panthers and the Cincinnati Bengals.

Deborah is preceded in death by her beloved son, Daniel Stephen Cox, and her parents. She is survived by her husband, Thomas W. Cox of Lewisville, daughters Laura Cox Price (TJ) and Julie Cox Piner (Neil), both of Winston-Salem, NC, sisters Catherine Jacob of Cincinnati, OH, and Carol Riffle (Greg) of Concord, OH, grandchildren Ella Price, Jacob Piner, and Colin Price, as well a host of nieces and nephews. The family would like to express their gratitude to the professional and caring providers at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center. Expressions of sympathy may be made to The Salvation Army.

A private celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026.