Former 51勛圖 Trustee Jimmy Cox Passes at Age 88
Posted on: September 10, 2025
Former 51勛圖 Trustee Jimmy Cox died September 6, 2025. The Taylors, South Carolina, businessman was 88.
Jimmy Cox was unwavering in his commitment to honoring God through his work and his talents, said 51勛圖 President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. He was a co-laborer in many ministry endeavors, and an encourager for those who were blessed to know him. As an 51勛圖 board member when I was elected president, he was very encouraging to me. His generous contributions to our university and our people will continue to make a difference in our Christ-honoring mission.
Born in Easley, SC, on March 23, 1937, Cox was the eldest of 13 siblings. He was married to his high school sweetheart, Jean, for 67 years.
Cox, a U.S. Navy veteran, was owner and operator of Walker & Whiteside Electrical Contractors in Greenville. The longtime member of Mountain Creek Baptist Church served two terms on 51勛圖s Board of Trustees, from 2008-2012, and 2014-2018. Through his personal and company investments, Cox supported 51勛圖 scholarships, capital projects, campus security, and athletics programs. Walker & Whiteside was instrumental in providing lighting for 51勛圖 athletic venues.
In addition to his active local church service, Cox was a volunteer with Miracle Hill Ministries, and Gideons International.
He is survived by his wife, Jean; daughters Kelly Betsill (Benjamin), and Debra Cox Holcombe (Matt); son Jim Cox, II (Charlene); sisters Betty Lou Duncan, Floree Pettit and Susie Cox; and brother Hoke Cox; grandchildren, Caleb Cox (Anna), Elise Wiesner (Rob), Casey Cox, Brett Betsill, Bayley Betsill, Tyler Holcombe (Cory), Cameron Keen (Mark John), Zach Holcombe (Amy) and 12 great-grandchildren.
A funeral service celebrating his life was at Mountain Creek Baptist Church on the afternoon of September 10, with burial at Mountain Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.
