Irma Barrett Cox, 98, a dedicated Christian, a devoted wife, sister, sister-in-law, and aunt, went to be with the Lord on June 29, 2014, at her home at the Arbor, West Monroe, Louisiana. Mrs. Cox departed this world, leaving behind a loving family, devoted friends, and lasting memories.

Born in Jackson Parish on October 9, 1915 to the union of Myrtie Whitlock Barrett and Cam Smith Barrett, she was educated at Crosley Elementary School and Ouachita Parish High School. She also graduated from Monroe Business College. She was employed at Montgomery Wards, where she met her husband, George M. Cox, and was also later employed at Power and Light Company. Together she and George enjoyed a career in West Monroe Plumbing and Heating and Air Conditioning, and then they co-developed D'Arbonne Hills Subdivision in West Monroe. After his death in 1976, she completed the units of the Subdivision that they had begun to develop together.

Mrs. Cox traveled extensively with her sister and brother-in-law. She also enjoyed bridge and was a fervent member and attendee of St. Paul's United Methodist Church. She was repeatedly recognized by the Pastor for her exemplary attendance, and she was a generous giver and benefactor to St. Paul's and to First United Methodist Church of West Monroe. After her husband's passing, she established a scholarship in his memory that is still active to this day. As a result of her compassion and generosity, many dental students and dental hygienists have been able to complete their degrees.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George M. Cox; sisters, Catherine Barrett Fisher, Gladys Barrett Averett, Eula Barrett Aulds, and Melba Barrett Garrett; brothers, C.M. Barrett, Harriel Barrett and Cam S. Barrett, Jr. She was also preceded in death by her nephew, Jim Fisher.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to Terri Deese, FNP; Natalie and Rochell at Louisiana Hospice and Palliative Care; also to the compassionate administration and staff at the Arbor of West Monroe. Finally, we want to thank Beatrice Rivers, Terry Taylor, Maria Hunt and Debra Caples for their loving care and comfort of Mrs. Cox in her final days. We appreciate the support of her pastor, Tim Neustifter and his wife Linda Beth, and Dr. Warren Blakeman for their timely visits. The family additionally appreciates Ricky Baker, Chaplain of Louisiana Hospice for his regular visits with her.

A celebration of her life will be held 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, July 2, 2014 in the chapel of Mulhearn Funeral Home, West Monroe. Visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. until service time. Interment will be in Hasley Cemetery in West Monroe.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that memorials be made to St. Paul's United Methodist Church, First United Methodist Church of West Monroe, the Ronald McDonald House in Monroe, or the Gideons.