Don Cox

Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Don Wayne Cox, age 45, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. Mr. Cox is preceded in death by his father, Don W. Cox; and by his grandparents, Jackie Brooks, Samuel and Nola Cox. He is survived by his loyal companion, Bracket; his fiancé, Ladena Wilburn; his mother and stepfather, Chuck and Susan McFarlin; his sister and brother-in-law, Amanda and Jake Townsend; his grandfather, Bruce Cecil Moneymaker; his stepson, Lane; stepdaughter, Lacey; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, including Daisha, Lexis, Dylan, Cadi, Cameron, Miekayle, Emily, Willoh, and Jurnee; mother-in-law, Judy Keener; Uncle Cecil; Aunts Kathy, Renee, and Rabbit; and by close friends Robert Hindman and Jinx.

Don’s passion for racing kicked off like a NOS engine when he was just a kid. He spent countless weekends at local tracks, cheering on his favorite drivers like a mini pit crew. As he grew up, he took the wheel himself, quickly learning that going fast was much more fun than sitting in a classroom (though he never quite mastered the “pedal to the metal” part when it came to homework!). His love for the racing community was something special, creating friendships like Ryan Coppock, Robert Hindman, Bubba, Aaron McGinnis, Frank and Frankie Denton, Chirs Hodge, Jason Thompson, Mike Ridge and so many others that went faster than any qualifying pass. Winning the track championship 2005. Oh, that was a proud moment—he even had a trophy that took up half his living room!

Outside of racing, Don had a wonderfully playful side. He loved to joke around and give everyone a hard time, always managing to bring laughter to those around him. His generosity was evident, and he had a knack for making people smile, even when they were a little irritated with him.

And let’s not forget about Bracket, his beloved dog, who wasn’t just a pet but a true companion. Together, they brought so much joy to each other’s lives. The bond they shared highlighted Don’s love for everyone in his life, whether they were human or furry friends. Don was truly one of a kind, always leaving a mark on the hearts with his humor and kindness.

The family invites you to share your favorite memories of Don by sharing a kind word or favorite memory either in the guestbook below or by emailing our offices at mynattfh@gmail.com. We will be adding to Don's story; please be sure to check back with us soon.

Family and friends will celebrate the life of Don Wayne Cox on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at Knoxville Drag, 160 Race Drive, Maynardville, TN 37807. Gates will be opened at 5:00 PM with the service beginning at 6:00 PM.