Darrell E. Cox, 85, of Urbana passed away peacefully, Wednesday November 22, 2023, at Bridle Brook Assisted Living in Mahomet. He was born August 25, 1938, in Effingham, the son of Wiley and Mary (Quick) Cox. In 1965, he married Carol Devore, and she preceded him in death in 2005. A daughter, Jennifer Marie, also preceded him in death in 1984.
Darrell is survived by three daughters: Cynthia Coleman (Gabe) of Urbana, Stacey Plotner (Tony) of Chapin, SC and Debra Ward (Michael) of Edwardsville, IL; four granddaughters: Marielle, Faith, Emma, and Alexandra; and two grandsons: Tanner and Weston.
Darrell graduated from the University of Illinois with a PhD in Botany and worked at the University of Illinois bookstore for 37 years. His research focus was mycology, and he spent much of his free time foraging, photographing, and eating mushrooms, especially the illusive morel. He was a two-time Grand Champion of the Illinois State Morel Hunting Championship and an expert beekeeper, gardener, and conservationist. He was a consummate bowler and even bowled a perfect game. You would hardly ever see him without a camera dangling from his neck as he photographed every significant and mundane event in his children’s lives. His greatest pride and joy were his daughters (his little bears) and his grandchildren, and he was their ultimate supporter.
Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m. Saturday December 2 at Renner-Wikoff Chapel & Crematory with visitation an hour before service time. Burial will be at Mt. Olive Cemetery, Mayview.
Condolences may be offered at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com
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