Marilyn Rose Cox

Marilyn Rose Shirkey Cox, 85, of Stuttgart, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on January 5, 1940, in Stuttgart to Lee O. and Edna Rose Shirkey, Marilyn was a lifelong resident of the community she loved.

A proud graduate of Stuttgart High School, Class of 1959, Marilyn married the love of her life, Glenn “Sonny” Cox, on March 3, 1962. Together, they shared 63 wonderful years of marriage, raising a family rooted in faith, love, laughter, and Razorback sports.

Marilyn dedicated over 30 years of her life to the field of dentistry, beginning as a dental assistant for Dr. Dean Laird and Dr. Jerry Sparrow, and later serving as the bookkeeper for Dr. Sparrow’s practice. Her work ethic, warmth, and attention to detail left a lasting impression on colleagues and patients alike.

She was a devoted wife, mother, gram, sister, aunt, and friend. Marilyn is survived by her husband, Glenn “Sonny” Cox of Stuttgart; daughters Kristi Cox of Stuttgart and Marci Miller (Jeff) of Springdale; granddaughter Olivia Larson of Springdale; and grandson Rally Miller of Dallas, Texas. She is also survived by her siblings: Pat Mahl (Larry†) of Wilmington, NC; Carolyn Dodson (L.H.†) of Springdale; Butch Shirkey (Kathleen) of Caswell Beach, NC; and Mike Shirkey of Fayetteville. She was preceded in death by her sister Kerry McCune (Byram) and her parents. Marilyn also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews who brought her great joy.

A lifelong member of Emanuel Lutheran Church, Marilyn’s faith was a guiding light in her life. She was active in her community, volunteering for many years with registration for the World’s Championship Duck Calling Contest and serving over a decade with the Jaycettes. She loved to travel—especially to Northwest Arkansas to visit her grandchildren—camp, antique, and collect rare purple glassware.

Marilyn was a gifted athlete, playing basketball from a young age through high school and later in an independent women’s league. She was also First Runner-Up in the 1960 Queen Mallard contest. A passionate Arkansas Razorback fan, she traveled far and wide to cheer on the Hogs in both football and basketball.

Her radiant smile could light up any room, and her fierce loyalty to family and friends was unmatched. She was known for her quick wit, her sassy personality, generous heart, and the unmistakable “Shirkey look” she wasn’t afraid to give when needed.

Visitation and funeral services will be Friday, Aug. 1, at Emanuel Lutheran Church officiated by Father Mark Nabors. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. and funeral services at 11 a.m. Marilyn will be laid to rest at Emanuel Lutheran Cemetery immediately following the service.

The family requests that memorial donations be made to Emanuel Lutheran Church, 209 S. Grand, Stuttgart, AR 72160.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Marilyn’s dedicated caregivers and to Arkansas Hospice for their compassionate care and support during her illness.