Sharon L. Cox, age 85, of Apple River, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Sharon was born on October 13, 1941, in Freeport, Illinois, the daughter of Joseph Lyle and Daisie (Hardacre) Rife. In 1959, she was united in marriage to Stanley Cox in Shannon, Illinois. Together, they built a life centered on family, faith, hard work, and devotion to one another.

For many years, Sharon and Stanley owned and operated their family dairy farm in rural Apple River. Their farm was not only a livelihood but also a reflection of their dedication, perseverance, and the values they shared throughout their marriage.

Sharon found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. She had a special appreciation for flowers, gardening, baking, and birds. She enjoyed the fellowship of friends through card clubs and book clubs and was an active and devoted member of the Apple River United Methodist Church.

Above all, Sharon treasured her family. Her greatest happiness came from the time she spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She will be remembered for her devotion to those she loved and the many cherished memories she leaves behind.

Sharon is survived by her beloved husband Stanley; their three children, Kim (Larry) Voigts, Boyd (Trisha) Cox, and Michelle Cox; her grandchildren, Adam (Karen) Voigts, Matt Voigts, Carrie (Lisa) Voigts-Guzman, Logan Voigts, Abby (Matt) Ware, Kelly (Mike) Pfeiffer, Brittney (Nick) Meyer, Greg (Cami) Cox, and Lexi (Colton) Bastian; ten great-grandchildren, with one more expected; two sisters, Phyllis Gothard and Pat Phillips; brother- in- law Max Pierce; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Shirley Heller and Mary Pierce; her brothers-in-law, Gene Gothard, Delvin Heller, and Don Phillips; and her great-grandson, Charles Scott Ware.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to SSM Hospice for the compassionate care, kindness, and support extended to Sharon and her family during her final days.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 13, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at the Apple River United Methodist Church in Apple River, Illinois.

A funeral service celebrating Sharon’s life will follow at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Libby Rutherford officiating.

A luncheon will follow the service at the Apple River Event Center.

A memorial has been established in Sharon’s memory.