Cory Jay (Papa) Cox, 63, of Iona, passed away on Sunday, July 6, 2025.

Cory was born on January 2, 1962, in Pocatello, Idaho, to Glenn H Cox and Verdis Ilean Bloxham Cox, and was the baby of 7 children: Terry (Dorothy) Cox, Craig  Cox both of Pocatello, Idaho, Carla (Chris) Niemeier, Sandra (Wayne) Skelton, Jeffery Glenn Cox (Tammy) all of Rigby, Idaho, and Scott Cox of Idaho Falls, Idaho.

He was a very avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting with the Guys and teaching children how to do it all.

Cory grew up in Pocatello until he was in 2nd grade, when the family moved to Idaho Falls, where he graduated from High School. He went on to the College of Eastern Idaho, where he earned his associate's degree in applied science.  He worked at U-Haul for several years as an RV mechanic, then went to work with Cary Nielson at Sommer's Plastering, where he retired in 2023.

In 1988, he met Kathy Sue Bates, and they were married on July 21, 1989. Kathy had three children who soon became like his own: Terrie, Brandon, and Elane. Cory quickly fit into the family. Cory taught the kids how to love the outdoors, and he later passed his love on to his grandchildren and nephews.

Cory is survived by his wife, Kathy Cox; his children: Terrie (Shawn) Safford, Brandon (Shannon) Cox, Elane Burgess, and Tyson Olson; 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and his parents-in-law.

He has left a legacy in the hearts of us, all who knew and loved him.

A celebration of life will be held from 2:00-4:00 p.m., on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at his home, 5251 E. Rainbow Lane, Iona. The family will visit with friends and family from 6:00-8:00 p.m., Friday, July 11, 2025, at Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First Street, Idaho Falls. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.coltrinmortuary.com .