Longtime Illinois Department of Employment Security Worker Jo Anne Cox Dies at 88

Cox was a faithful member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church for over 50 years.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:42pm

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph of a church interior, with blurred shapes and muted colors creating a serene, spiritual mood.The passing of longtime church member Jo Anne Cox leaves a void in the Mount Vernon community, but her family hopes to carry on her spirit of kindness.San Diego Today

Jo Anne Cox, an 88-year-old resident of Mount Vernon, Illinois, passed away on April 3, 2026. Cox worked for the Illinois Department of Employment Security for nearly 30 years, taking great joy in helping people find jobs and giving them hope for a brighter future. She was also a longtime and devoted member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church.

Why it matters

Cox's passing marks the end of an era for the Mount Vernon community, as she was known for her kindness, generosity, and commitment to helping others through her work and church involvement. Her family hopes to continue her legacy of compassion for many generations.

The details

Jo Anne Cox was born on May 24, 1937 in Spring Garden, Illinois, the daughter of Herbert and Pansy (Hughey) Pierce. She married Grover Cox in 1975, who preceded her in death in 2001. Cox is survived by her two daughters, four grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren, as well as her sister-in-law. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her son, brother, twin brother, two sisters, and a brother-in-law.

  • Jo Anne Cox passed away on April 3, 2026 at 11:47 pm.
  • Cox was born on May 24, 1937.
  • Cox married Grover Cox in 1975.
  • Grover Cox passed away in 2001.

The players

Jo Anne Cox

An 88-year-old resident of Mount Vernon, Illinois who worked for the Illinois Department of Employment Security for nearly 30 years and was a faithful member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church for over 50 years.

Grover Cox

Jo Anne Cox's husband, who passed away in 2001.

Herbert and Pansy (Hughey) Pierce

Jo Anne Cox's parents, who preceded her in death.

Tammy Knox and Cathi Jackson

Jo Anne Cox's two daughters.

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church

The church that Jo Anne Cox was a faithful member of for over 50 years.

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What’s next

A Visitation will be held on April 7, 2026 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Mount Vernon Memorial Gardens Chapel in Woodlawn. A Funeral Service will begin at 11:00 am with Pastor Doug Junkins officiating. Interment will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials may be made in Jo Anne's honor to the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church.

The takeaway

Jo Anne Cox's passing marks the end of an era for the Mount Vernon community, as she was known for her lifelong commitment to helping others through her work and church involvement. Her family's goal of continuing her legacy of compassion is a testament to the lasting impact she had on those around her.