James Michael Cox, age 61, of Clinton, Tennessee passed away February 9, 2021 at Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center in Knoxville. James was born January 13, 1960 and was a lifelong resident of Clinton. He had a unique gift of making everyone feel like family and therefore, never met a stranger.

As the founder of Little Ponderosa Zoo and Rescue, James turned his passion for animals into an experience that promoted education, celebrated family and community, and provided a forever home for many abandoned and forgotten animals.

James was preceded in death by his father: Lester Cox; and son: Brandon Cox. He is survived by his mother: Loretta Cox; brother: Steve Cox; children: Tiffany Wade (Bruce), Tim Cox, Brittany Daniel (Jason), Cade Cox, and Corbin Cox; special friend and partner: Mary Lou Redmond and daughter Madison; grandchildren: Alexis Wade, Gracie Wade, Delaney Wade, Miley Wade, Bryce Wade, Callie Cox, Caelyn Cox, Kylee Daniel, and Jayden Daniel; niece: Chandler Cox; aunts: Lois Bray and Joyce Jarnigan; and several cousins and many close friends.

Friends are invited to attend an outdoor memorial service at the Little Ponderosa Zoo and Rescue Saturday, February 13, 2021 from noon until 6 p.m. eastern.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you honor the legacy and lifework of James through a memorial donation to the Little Ponderosa Zoo and Rescue at 629 Granite Rd, Clinton, TN 37716.