James Roy Fox

In Loving Memory of James R. Fox.

December 10, 1942 – June 7, 2026

With profound sadness and immense love, we announce the passing of our beloved father, husband, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, James R. Fox, Known to Friends and Family as Jim or “J.R.” passed away unexpectedly on June 7, 2026, at the age of 83.

James is survived by his wife Naomia Fox who shared an extraordinary 60-year marriage, celebrating just a few days before his passing their 60th wedding anniversary, a milestone that reflected a lifetime of love, commitment, partnership, and friendship. He lived a remarkable life defined by love, laughter, kindness, hard work, and unwavering devotion to his family. Born on December 10, 1942, to Leroy and Margaret Fox, in the small town of Clinton Tennessee, James was one of thirteen children, growing up alongside nine sisters and three brothers was always at the center of his life. He often spoke fondly of his siblings and the memories they shared. He is survived by his brother, Charles Franklin Fox, and his sister, Mildred Ruth as well as countless nieces and nephews. We take comfort in imagining the joyful reunion he is now having with the many family members who passed before him, welcoming him home with a good old-fashioned Fox family cookout

Above all else, James was devoted to his family.

He was a proud and loving father to his daughter, Vicky Vaughn, and his son, Dennis Fox. He was equally proud of his son-in-law, Rick Vaughn, whom he loved and respected as family, admiring the life he built and the values he embodied.

Nothing brought James greater joy than being a grandfather and a “Poppa”. He adored his five grandsons—Justin Vaughn, Travis Vaughn, Matthew Fox, Connor Fox, and Ethan Fox—and took immense pride in watching them grow into fine young men. He celebrated their accomplishments, encouraged them through challenges, and loved them unconditionally.

One of his greatest joys was welcoming Justin’s wife Tessa Vaughn into the family. He often joked that he had finally gotten the “granddaughter” he always wanted. Watching Justin and Tessa exchange their wedding vows filled his heart with pride and happiness, and he treasured the love they shared. He and Travis enjoyed talking about their shared love for old cars, restorations and old movies. He often traveled to be there to support and watch Matthew, Connor and Ethan excel in their sports, Soccer, and anything that gave them joy, always cheering them on.

To his children and grandchildren, he was more than a father and grandfather—he was our protector and our teacher of many things. If you needed anything or wanted to know about anything he was always there no questions asked. He would do anything that was needed. Jokingly often our personal chauffeur long before Uber existed. No matter the time of day or night, he made sure we and our friends got where we needed to go and, more importantly, made sure we got home safely. He was always there when we needed him.

To everyone who knew him, he was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back, lend a helping hand without being asked, and greet you with a smile, a joke, or a bit of playful banter. He was a wealth of knowledge and know how, a go to for a source of information. He had a gift for making people feel welcome, valued, and cared for. His smile and laugh were remarkable, he always had a pen in his shirt pocket that he was surly to ask for it back if you borrowed it.

Through his words and actions, James taught us the importance of hard work, loyalty, compassion, humility, and treating others with kindness and respect. His heart was enormous, his generosity endless, and his love for family unwavering. The lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the values he instilled will continue to guide us for generations.

While our hearts are broken by his loss, we find comfort in knowing that he earned his wings and is now watching over us with that familiar Fox smile. His legacy lives on in his wife, children, grandchildren, extended family, and all those whose lives were touched by his kindness and generosity.

James will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. We will keep you close to our hearts and love you forever

Rest easy, Dad.

Your love, strength, wisdom, and spirit will remain with us always.