Barbara Jeannine Cox, 94, of Traverse City, passed away peacefully at Boardman Lake Glens. She was born September 4, 1931, in Inland Township to Lorentz and Eileen (Clow) Bye.

Barbara met her husband, Charles Edward Cox, in grade school. They later married in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and eventually returned to Traverse City to build their life together and raise their daughter, Jackie.

Barbara lived a full and vibrant life centered around family, travel and work. A large part of her life, both as a child and as an adult, was spent working at Milliken’s Department Store where she formed many lasting friendships.

Barbara was the family’s “Queen Bee”. She loved traveling, playing bridge, decorating, and keeping up her garden. In her later years, she rarely sat still—spending hours reading and working on intricate puzzles well into her 90s. She was social and could often be found at the Traverse City Country Club for dinner, enjoying a good meal and conversation.

Barbara had a sharp wit and a strong presence that people remembered. She kept close ties with family and friends and stayed engaged in her relationships with those both near and far.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Jackie (Mark) Ribel; her grandchildren, Mark (Julie) Ribel and Ryan Ribel; great grandsons, Brody, Cooper, Anthony, Owen and Tyler; her siblings, Niki Elhart, Cindy (Larry) Flynn, and Richard (Pam) Bye; and many other cherished family members and friends.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Charles; her parents; and her sister, Mary Overly, who welcomed her into heaven.

Services will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. and the service at 11:00 a.m.A luncheon will follow at the Traverse City Golf & Country Club.

Memorial contributions may be directed to a charity of one’s choice.