The oldest Texas Tech quarterback, T.M. Cox, Jr. peacefully passed away at the age of 99 on January 14, 2022.  After a stellar athletic career while in High School in Muleshoe, he hitchhiked to Lubbock and landed an athletic scholarship in the mid-1940s.  He was a Red Raider through and through.  After graduation from Texas Tech, he coached in several communities in the Texas Panhandle while recruiting for Tech's football program.  He continued to expand his accomplishments as an insurance agent and an entrepreneur. T.M. was proud to be called a Shriner, Tornado Tim, Coach, auctioneer, master gardener, dog trainer, hunter, angler, and dancer.  However, he was most proud when called Dad, Daddy, Papa Bear, or just Papa.

In 1947 while coaching his basketball team he walked into a gym in Dalhart and set his eyes on a beautiful but sassy, red-head named Lenore Hise.  He immediately told everyone he was going to marry that one, and did.  On December 21, 1947 he and Lenore set out for the adventure of their life together.

T.M. was born on July 29, 1922 in Eli to Thomas and Alma Moss Cox.  While growing up he was surrounded by the love of his parents, five brothers, and six sisters.  T.M. loved his Lord and kept his faith at the center of his life always.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and his loving wife, Lenore.  T.M. is survived by his son, T. Michael Cox and wife, Donna, of Cuero; his daughter, Sheryl Lynn Hardy and husband, Larry, of Lipan; three grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

T.M. was so full of advice and shared it freely.  He loved to encourage young people in their personal and professional lives.  His words of encouragement included: Do good, never bad – think positive and never negative – and be tough when you have to.  He took his own advice and lived a very long, full and blessed life.  He was a touchy, huggy, feely kinda guy, magnetic, charming; he loved people and they loved him back.

Papa, we will always "love you more" and cherish every single memory.

T.M. will be laid to rest next to Lenore in Perryton.

Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, 321 S Baylor St, Perryton, TX 79070 or Perryton Lions Club, PO Box 1194, Perryton, Texas 79070.

You may sign the guest book or send condolences at www.freundfuneralhome.com.

Freund Funeral Home, 361-275-2343.