Michael Fitzpatrick Cox
Michael Fitzpatrick Cox, 57, of Salem, VA passed away and went home to be with his Lord in Heaven on Saturday, December 21, 2024 with his family by his side. He was a kind and easy going soul who loved his family and aimed to help those in need.
Born along with twin sister Tracey, on April 10, 1967 in Washington, D.C., he was the son of Michael Joseph Cox and Barbara Anne Fitzpatrick Cox; the grandson of George and Kathryn Cox, and Joseph and Angie Fitzpatrick.
Michael or Mike, as he was known to those closest to him, was a 1985 graduate of Norfolk Catholic High School and went on to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from the University of Virginia in 1989, a law degree from the College of William and Mary in 1995, and a Master's degree from Georgetown University in 2001. Michael held positions in private industry and for the federal government including serving as a trial attorney in the U. S. Department of Justice's tax division. Michael joined Norfolk Southern in 2000 as an assistant tax counsel. He has held positions with increasing responsibility for over 24 years. In 2019, Michael was named Vice President of Taxation.
Michael loved being with his family especially his daughters Olivia and Lauren. He loved making Mimi's special spaghetti sauce and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. Recently, he was excited about teaching Olivia to drive and helping the girls make decisions about their future. He was always supporting his daughters in their love of ballet and dance. Michael recently became a cat owner when he adopted Mr. Milo.
Michael was a loyal colleague and boss at work. His expertise, knowledge, and kind heart were appreciated by all members of the NS tax department. He worked to help the railway and his employees through many challenges. He was loved by all.
Michael is survived by his wife, Jenny Pagans Cox; daughters, Olivia and Lauren Cox, of Salem, VA; sister, Tracey Cox Hasick and her husband Dale; brother, Carl Cox; nieces, Taylor Perrin and husband Caleb and Ella Cox of Norfolk, VA; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins..
In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorials be made to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.
The family will receive friends from 12:30 until 2:00 p.m. on Monday, December 30, 2024 at Simpson Funeral Home 5160 Peters Creek Road. A celebration of Michael's life will follow the visitation at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Jeff Wilson officiating. Interment will be in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens. A memorial service will be held in Norfolk, Virginia at a later date. Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home 5160 Peters Creek Road Roanoke, VA 540 366 0707.
