James Thomas Cox, 76, of Wichita, died Sunday, March 15, 2026 at the Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice Center of Ascension Via Christi Medical Center-St. Francis Campus in Wichita, Kansas.

He was born in Kirbyville, Texas, the son of Clarence Jewel and Florence May Wheeler Cox. The family moved to Wichita where he graduated from Wichita Heights High School. James later served in the U.S. Army.

Through the years he had worked as a fleet maintenance mechanic and later as a machinist for Norman Plastics in Haysville.

James was very proud of his Native American heritage with the Cherokee and Blackfoot tribes and had the eagle as his spirit guide. He enjoyed feeding the squirrels along with fishing.

Survivors include his son Kenneth Wayne Cox of Stillwater, Oklahoma; daughters Sarah McHaley of Winfield, Kansas, Paula White of Stillwater; his siblings Terry Cox of Wichita, Carol Johnson of Wichita, Larry Cox of Park City; nine grandchildren; and six great grandchildren.

James is preceded in death by his parents; siblings David, Dennis, Jack, Roy, Jennie, and Wesley; and a grandchild.

A Celebration of Life will be announced by Affordable Cremations Plus, Wichita, Kansas.