Willard "Nig" Cox

Willard “Nig” Cox, age 75, of Hillsboro Road, Hillsboro, passed away peacefully Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at the home of his niece, Stephanie Jolly in Hillsboro.

Born April 7, 1951, in Knott County, he was a son of the late Press Cox and Grethel Crum Cox. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four brothers, Willie Cox, Grant Cox, Joe Cox, and Bill Cox; and five sisters, Betty Ann Brooks, Cora Moore, Mary Slone, Katie Jean Cox, who died at 18 months old, and Opal Cox, who died at childbirth.

Willard is survived by a brother, Elmer “Pete” Cox (Shirley) of Hillsboro; two sisters, Betty Slone of Mousie, Kentucky, and Lela Slone of Floyd County; and a special niece, Stephanie Cox Jolly (Dwight) of Hillsboro. Stephanie and Dwight provided loving care for Willard and were by his side during his final days. Also surviving are his great-nephew, Isaac Jolly, whom Willard thought of as a grandson of Hillsboro, and great-niece, Michaela Stamper (Aaron), of Frenchburg, who also provided loving care to Willard. He is also survived by two great-great-nephews, Hunter Allen and Hudson Stamper, and a great-great-niece, Hadlee Stamper, all of Frenchburg. Hunter, Hudson, and Hadlee brought great joy to Willard, brightened his days, and loved making him feel better.

Willard is also survived by his longtime friends, Gerald and Connie Saunders, and Melissa Kane and her daughter, Isabella, whom Willard affectionately referred to as “his baby girl,” all of Hillsboro; a host of nieces and nephews; many cousins; and extended family and friends.

Willard was a farmer and former construction worker. He enjoyed spending time with his family, attending Hillsboro Christian Church, loafing at the Hillsboro Handi Mart, listening to bluegrass gospel music, and sitting under the big tree in his yard. He will be remembered for the simple joys he found in life and the special place he held in the hearts of his family and friends.

Willard will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Hutton Funeral Home with Brother Randy Hawkins and Brother Gerald Saunders officiating. Burial will follow in Hillsboro Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Elmer “Pete” Cox, Isaac Jolly, Dwight Jolly, Aaron Stamper, Elmer Cox, Jr., Hunter Allen, Johnny Vise, and Dale Whaley. Honorary pallbearers will be Hudson Stamper and Bill Vise.

Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, September 18, 2026, and from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Hutton Funeral Home, 7634 Hillsboro Road, Hillsboro, KY 41049.

View memorial tribute or sign guestbook at www.huttonfuneralhome.com