Charles Eugene "Gene" Cox's Obituary
Charles Eugene “Gene” Cox, M.D. departed to his Heavenly home on September 13, 2016. His devotion to his family and his unwavering faith in God supported him during a long battle and ultimately gave him peace.Gene was born to the late Ted and Mary Cox in Moultrie, GA on June 29, 1942. He moved with his family to Lakeland, FL when he was six years old and spent the remainder of his childhood there. Gene graduated from the University of Florida (Go Gators!) with a degree in physics and continued his education at the University of Florida College of Medicine. He completed his internship and residency at Shands Teaching Hospital in Gainesville, becoming a darn good ophthalmologist that bleeds orange and blue.In 1969 Gene joined the United States Army as a flight surgeon and spent a year in Vietnam. Upon returning to the U.S. he completed the rest of his medical training and moved to Fort Myers in 1974 to begin his medical career. Gene practiced for 41 years and dedicated his life to taking care of others. He was truly beloved by his patients, all of whom he would consider dear friends.Gene was blessed with a loving family that adored him. He married his best friend, Linda deForest, on September 5, 1987, and they spent 29 years walking through a beautiful life together hand in hand. They were committed to each other, their family, and the Lord.Gene was a man of faith with a kind spirit and loving heart. He spent much of his free time on woodworking projects and utilized every gift that God gave him. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends who celebrate that he is at peace with his Creator.Gene is survived by his wife, Linda; his children Lisa Cox McGraw (Bill), Ryan King, and Courtney Cox Hatcher (Andrew); his daughter-in-law Janice Cox; his grandchildren Chaz and Chandler Cox; and his sister, Betty Miscally (Art). He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, William Cox.A memorial service will be held at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church at 11:00 a.m. on September 17 with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church.
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