Ronald Cox Cause of Death: Family and Friends Remember a Life of Hard Work, Faith and Family
Ronald Gene Cox, a longtime Oklahoma resident remembered for his dedication to family, hard work, faith and the people around him, has died. Cox passed away on July 7, 2026, at his home in Sapulpa, Oklahoma, with his wife, Becky, by his side. He was 73.
His passing has brought sadness to family members, friends, former colleagues and others whose lives were connected with him throughout the years. Those who knew Ronald will remember a man whose life was grounded in family, work, faith and the simple pleasures he enjoyed.
Early Life and Family
Ronald was born October 23, 1952, in Yale, Oklahoma, to Gerald and Esther Cox. He graduated from Yale High School in 1970, where he enjoyed playing football, before attending OSU Tech School in Okmulgee and earning a degree as a diesel mechanic.
He married Becky Hudgins on September 1, 1973. Their marriage lasted more than five decades, and together they raised two sons, Brian and Robbie.
Ronald was raised on his family’s farm, where he learned the value of responsibility and hard work from an early age. Those lessons remained part of his character throughout his life.
A Career Built on Dedication
Cox spent more than 40 years working as a diesel mechanic for Caterpillar Equipment in Tulsa. His career reflected the practical skills, patience and work ethic that had become defining qualities in his life.
He was also known for helping coworkers improve their own mechanical skills. After retiring, he continued maintaining friendships with former colleagues, including regular monthly gatherings where they could share meals and reminisce about earlier years.
Outside of work, Ronald enjoyed deer hunting, trout fishing on the Roaring River and Oklahoma Sooners football. He also enjoyed noodling with his father when he was younger.
Faith and Community
Faith played an important role in Ronald’s life. He was ordained as a deacon at Westside Baptist Church and taught Bible drill to children for many years. At the time of his passing, he was a member of the Way Church in Sapulpa.
His commitment to faith and family became an important part of the legacy he leaves behind.
Ronald is survived by his wife of 52 years, Becky Cox; sons Brian Cox and his wife, Teresa, and Robbie Cox and his wife, Crystal; grandchildren Lily Cox, Colton Cox, and Trevor Bradshaw and his wife, Lauren; sister Arnetta Hubbell and her husband, Phil; brother Clifford Cox and his wife, Pam; and other relatives and loved ones.
The official obituary does not identify a specific cause of death, so no cause should be assumed or attributed to his passing.
A celebration of Ronald’s life was scheduled for July 11 at First Baptist Church in Yale, Oklahoma.
Ronald Cox leaves behind more than memories of a long career and a life rooted in faith. He leaves a family, friendships and relationships built over decades. For those who knew and loved him, his memory will continue through the stories, traditions and moments they shared with him.