Mary Jane Cox (née Farney) of Kirkwood, Missouri, passed away on August 14, 2013. Born in Neosho, Missouri on February 8, 1935 to Everett and Hazel (Karbe) Farney, Jane attended Neosho High School, Drury College, and the University of Arkansas, where she earned a B.A. in English. Jane will be greatly missed by David F. Cox, her beloved husband of 52 years; by her son Jonathan F. Cox, to whom she was devoted; and by her wide circle of friends. In accordance with Jane’s wishes, no services will be held.

Jane possessed a lively intelligence, a rare wit, unwavering ideals, and a compassionate heart. A voracious reader, she was engaged by contemporary issues and passionate about literature, politics, and the arts. In addition, she provided unwavering care and support to family and friends, meeting every challenge with grace and generosity. As she aged, Jane forged herself into an unfailingly positive, humane, and gracious model of maturity.

Always committed to high quality early education, Jane was an early supporter of the innovative Pitman Elementary Open School in Kirkwood in the early 1970s. In later years, she and David enthusiastically supported the Cornerstone Center for Early Learning, a United Way agency serving children from working families since 1969. The first preschool in St. Louis to achieve accredited status, Cornerstone provides comprehensive care and education for over 200 children annually; most receive scholarship support. Jane often arrived at the inner-city school with fresh supplies of bright wooden puzzles and carefully chosen picture books, understanding the vital role these play in human development. Nothing delighted her more than enriching children whose families otherwise might not be able to provide foundational early childhood education.

To honor Jane’s enduring values, the family asks that memorial gifts be directed to Cornerstone Center. To donate, reach out to:
Cornerstone Center for Early Learning
3901 Russell Blvd
St. Louis, MO 63110
314-865-5244
http://cornerstonecenterstl.org