Matilda Rebecca “Till” Cox

Matilda Rebecca “Till” Cox (née Moses), 86, of Williamsburg, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 27, 2025, in Corbin. Born on August 10, 1939, in Jellico Creek, Kentucky, Matilda lived a vibrant life rooted in family, faith, and a deep love for her home state. Affectionately known as “Mamaw” to many and “Aunt Till,” to most, she was cherished by all for her spirited personality and boundless energy.
Her early years were spent on a farm in the hills of Kentucky, with her 11 brothers and sisters. She attended high school in Rockholds before continuing her education in Berea. A lifelong learner, she later attended Cumberland College alongside her youngest daughter. She pursued postgraduate studies at Somerset Community College with her oldest daughter—a testament to her enduring curiosity and dedication to personal growth.
She was named an official Kentucky Colonel, a recognition that reflects her pride in Kentucky’s heritage and dedication to community service. At age 71, she hiked the historic 21-mile Cumberland Gap Wilderness Road Trail from Virginia to Kentucky—a 12-hour journey that showcased her adventurous nature.
Together with her late husband, Dillard Cox Sr., Matilda owned D&M Drywall in Ohio for many years. After returning to Kentucky, she worked at Williamsburg Plastics and later served as a school bus driver for the Whitley County School District until retirement. Even after retiring, she remained active in the community by working in local restaurants simply for the joy of connecting with others.
Matilda’s heart was always with her family and community. She was a devoted Southern Baptist Christian who worshipped at Jellico Creek Baptist Church for many years. Her faith guided her volunteer work with the Lane Theater Restoration Committee and as a leader for both the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America. Through this, she was able to lead and volunteer with her daughters, granddaughter, and grandson. One of her proudest achievements was helping her grandson earn his Eagle Scout Badge—a milestone that brought her immense joy.
She is lovingly remembered by her two daughters: Rosalee Cox Davis (and loving friend David “Buck” Carr) and Rebecca Ruth Cox Lickliter (Robbie); grandchildren: Brooke Meadors, Abigail Hicks (Connor), and Kevin Moses; great-grandchildren: Madison Moses, Skylar Moses, Aiden Moses (Hallie), Brody Moses, and Coby Moses; great-great-grandchildren: Brena Moses and Everlee Moses; siblings: Kermit Moses (Vera), Rommell Moses (Aretta), Carl Moses, Flonnie Bishop, and Carolyn Moses; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dillard Cox Sr.; sons Dillard Cox Jr. and Timothy Charles Cox; parents, William Riley Moses and Mary Ruth Moses; brothers, Shirley Moses (Estelle), Theodore Moses (Edna), Felix Moses (Margie), Andrew Moses (Barbara), Truman Moses (Joan); sister, Calestine Moses Davis; sister-in-law, Brenda Moses; son-in-law, Bobby Joe Davis; and special friend, Linda Lawson.
Matilda’s legacy is one of warmth, resilience, hard work, and generosity. She never met a stranger—her welcoming nature made everyone feel at home.
Known for her beautiful white hair and infectious laugh, she brought light into every room she entered.Whether cooking a family meal, hunting, fishing, raising chickens, or simply sharing stories about the latest (Fox) news stories, she lived each day with purpose and joy. That purpose and joy were always visible when her smile lit up at any activity involving her children or grandchildren. You could count on her to sit on the sidelines cheering for their team.
Funeral service will be 2:00 PM Wednesday, October 1, at the Ellison Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Sam Moore officiating. Interment will be in Wofford Cemetery.
Visitation will be 5:00 PM Tuesday, September 30, at the funeral home.
May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.
Condolences may be made to the family at www.ellisonfh.com.
Ellison Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.