Ralph E. Cox

Ralph . "Red" Everett Cox, 90, of Worcester died peacefully Wednesday June 16, 2010 while visiting his daughter in the Berkshires. Ralph is survived by his brother Leonard R. Cox of Shrewsbury, His children, Edward C. Cox, of Oxford, Kenneth S. Cox, of Cleveland, Ga., Nancy J. Timmons, of Great Barrington, Steven A. Cox of Raymond Maine, and David R. Cox of Worcester. Nine precious grandchildren and four great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son Leonard W. Cox and his beloved sister, Marjorie Murdock of Portland Maine. Born July 25, 1919 in Worcester to Mae (Richards) and John Cox, Ralph was a lifelong resident on Grafton Hill. He attended Middlesex Grammar, Grafton St. Jr. High and North High School where he rose to fame as a long distance cross country runner. During his youth Ralph worked on the Richards family farm on Harrington Way until joining the US Army during WW ll. Stationed in Rhode Island, He was a radar operator for a coastal artillery unit for the duration of the war. Returning home Ralph worked as a truck driver for Ballantine Beer and Ale, Worcester Oxygen and Acetylene, and later for Premium Beverage. He was a loyal longtime member of Local 170, Teamsters Union. A dedicated teamster he was often seen picketing and rallying to get out the vote. Ralph was a well liked and respected for his honesty and his warm sense of humor. His fondness for the city and particularly Grafton Hill were echoed in his often repeated memorable phrase "Everything I ever wanted to see and do is in Worcester". His daughter, Nancy, would like to extend her sincere thanks to all the emergency responders and emergency room staff at Fairview Hospital, in Gt. Barrington, for their compassionate care and unyielding dedication. Ralph's funeral service will be held Tuesday June 22 at 10:AM in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 370 Plantation St. Calling hours will be held on Monday evening from 5-7PM. Interment will be in Hope Cemetery.