Michael Hugh Cox, age 71, of Orlando, Florida, passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, June 29, 2021, after a brief battle with cancer. He was born in Columbus, Ohio, on June 30, 1949, to parents Hugh and Mary Lou (Gall) Cox.
He is survived by his children, Shaun Cox, Lisa (Greg) Miller, Jeremy (Heather) Cox, Brandi (Ryan) Moore; mother of children, Rosemary Cox, grandchildren; Darrin Selby-Cox, Bryce Cox, Daniel Cox, Ayden Cox, Emily Miller, Owen Miller, Jacob Miller, Lukas Moore, Ella Moore, Laine Moore, Mackenzie Cox, Garrett Cox; great-grandchild, Acacia Cox; sisters, Linda (Tom) Custer, Judy (Doc) Stroud; extended family members, Kevin Cooper, Walt Schaffrick, and David Stokes. He is preceded in death by his father, Hugh Cox, Jr., and mother, Mary Lou Cox.
To know Michael was to see a man that was multi-faceted but consistent of character. In his early years, he was dedicated to his career and providing for his family, working in the travel industry. Starting his professional career at Walt Disney World, his drive and spirit for top-notch customer service were born, and so was his entrepreneurial spirit. He later launched one of his many business ventures, The Travel Emporium, which would create years of exciting memories for his four kids through trips to Florida, the Bahamas, and Mexico. At this company, he also met one of his many forever friends, Laurie McHalpine Bailie. His life and work transitions brought him to his final home in Orlando, Florida, where he found his calling in the cruise industry at Cruises Only. It was here where Michael's mentorship, hardworking demeanor, patience, and life-long friendships developed. His co-workers knew him as one of the most dedicated members of the team. The guy who would never leave you behind and who would motivate you to pick yourself up when you were ready to throw in the towel. Michael was fortunate enough to experience his passion for travel with work. He adventured to the waterfalls of Tahiti, the lush islands of Hawaii, cruised the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean, saw the historical monuments of Greece, Italy, and Spain. Toured Germany, England, and France; hiked the ruins of Machu Picchu, Peru, and trekked all the way down under to the Sydney Opera House in Australia. If it wasn't too cold of a climate, chances are, Michael had been there. When Michael wasn't traveling, you would find him with friends, working on his house, or gardening. Meticulous doesn't even begin to describe his well-manicured lawn. He was incredibly involved in his community and was a proud member of the Mayor's City Academy. His compassion and love didn't end with people. Those who knew him also understood his passion for animals - especially the many dogs he owned and loved over the years.
When it came to family and friends, he was consistently described as an honest, dedicated, compassionate, and funny person. Michael often shared stories of his four kids and twelve grandkids (who live in Ohio) with his "Florida Family." They always knew how Shaun, Lisa, Jeremy, and Brandi were doing. The same was true for his grandkids, who were a constant source of Michael's smiles and joy. His sisters Linda and Judy shared a special relationship and special memories with Michael, too, making time for each other with visits between Ohio and Florida. While caring and good-hearted, you can't talk about Michael without mentioning the flip side – that is – he was the life of the party. He loved great music, dancing, and a cold Miller Lite was considered part of his wardrobe. He was often out at local restaurants sharing a meal and a light-hearted story with friends, new and old. Michael knew how to have a good time, host a great time, and he will be remembered for a lifetime.
A celebration of Michael's life will be held both in Orlando, Florida and Columbus, Ohio. Please RSVP @ https://www.facebook.com/michael.m.cox.58
Orlando, Florida
Sunday, August 1
11:00-2:00
Celebration Gardens
1871 Minnesota Ave.
Winter Park, FL 32789
Columbus, Ohio
Saturday, August 7
5:00-7:00
The Design Farm
1266 Manning Parkway
Powell, OH 43065
To share a memory of Michael or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.