Carmen Manuela Cox

Carmen Manuela Cox, age 81 years, passed away on January 30, 2024, in Kansas City, Missouri. She was born on September 27, 1942, in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico to Bartolome and Rosalina (Garcia) Collazo. Carmen graduated from Grain Valley High School in 1960. 

Carmen was known for her unwavering love for her family and her beloved dog, Sophie. After marrying her husband Wallace “Dean” Cox in 1970, she cherished spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and creating beautiful memories together. Carmen had a fondness for gardening and took great pleasure in tending the flowers in her yard. She also possessed a talent for quilting blankets that she lovingly crafted for each of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Moreover, Carmen's creative spirit shone through her oil paintings of picturesque landscapes which revealed not only her artistic abilities but also her appreciation for beauty. 

An avid reader with an affinity for history and historical fiction, Carmen immersed herself in books that allowed her to travel through time and gain a deeper understanding of our world's past. Her thirst for knowledge was insatiable as she delved into the pages of countless historical narratives; it was in these stories that Carmen found solace and inspiration. 

Carmen's life was enriched by the presence of her loved ones. She is survived by her three children Elizabeth Huff, Christina Allman, and Matthew Cox. Additionally, Carmen leaves behind her brother David Collazo and sister Nydia Knight. The legacy of Carmen's life shines brightly in the hearts of those who knew her best. She will be sorely missed but fondly remembered by not only her immediate family but also by nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She now joins those loved ones who have gone before her, including her husband, Wallace “Dean” Cox; father, Bartolome Collazo; mother, Rosalina (Garcia) Collazo; and granddaughter, Gabriella Morejon. 

Carmen was laid to rest next to her beloved husband at Mt. Washington Cemetery in Independence, MO. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that contributions be made in Carmen’s honor to Children’s Mercy Hospital. 

Carmen Manuela Cox was a nurturing soul whose unconditional love and care touched the lives of many. May her gentle spirit forever inspire us to embrace compassion and cherish our loved ones. Though she may no longer be with us in physical form, her memory will forever be etched in our hearts and minds as a testament to a life well-lived.