William Riley "Bill" Cox Jr., 83, of Franklin, IN passed away Wednesday, September 25, 2024 at Johnson Memorial Hospital in Franklin, IN.

He was born May 22, 1941 in Franklin, IN to William Riley Cox Sr. and Jessie Fon (Shake) Cox.

Bill was 1959 graduate of Edinburgh High School and attended Franklin College.

He was a United States Air Force Veteran having been stationed in England.

Bill had worked at Wendy's in Franklin, IN for nine years.

He was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Franklin, IN where he served on the finance council, assisting with school programs, and starting the Saturday night crew at the church.

Bill enjoyed traveling, singing, playing the guitar, piano, and other instruments at health care facilities for resident's enjoyment.  He also enjoyed cooking, entertaining, and watching tennis.  Bill was a jokester, prankster and loved kids.

He enjoyed living with his niece and nephew Bethany and James Skaggs.

Survivors include his brother Robert L. Cox of Franklin, IN and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Edward Earl Smithers and Charles James Smithers.

Father Tim DeCrane will conduct a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, September 30, 2024 at 10AM at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 114 Lancelot Drive in Franklin, IN.

Friends may call Sunday, September 29, 2024 from 2PM until 6PM at Swartz Family Community Mortuary and Memorial Center, 300 South U.S. 31 (Morton Street) in Franklin, IN where a prayer service will conducted at 5:30 PM and Monday, September 30, 2024 from 9AM until service time at the church.  Burial will be at Greenlawn Cemetery in Franklin, IN.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 114 Lancelot Drive Franklin, IN 46131 or at www.saintrose.net.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.swartzmortuary.com.  Information 317-738-0202.