Raymer David Cox, known affectionately as Raymer to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2025, in Cushing, Oklahoma. Born on October 28, 1935, in Winter Park, Florida, Raymer’s life was a testament to his faith, love, and dedication to his community. Raymer’s early years were spent in Tampa, Florida, where he attended local schools and graduated from Hillsborough High School. His thirst for knowledge and spiritual growth led him to Toccoa Falls Bible College in Georgia, and he later transferred to McPherson College in Kansas, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. Raymer continued his postgraduate work at Bethany Seminary in Illinois, further preparing for a life of service.
For 41 years, Raymer served as a pastor, touching lives in Illinois, Iowa, Oklahoma, Kansas, and West Virginia. His commitment to helping others extended beyond his pastoral duties as he led teams with the Church of the Brethren for Disaster Relief, offering hope and rebuilding communities in times of need.
Raymer’s interests were as diverse as his talents. A lover of trains, he rode almost every Amtrak train in America and even ventured onto the rails of Canada. His passion for gardening was evident in the beautiful roses that he cultivated, and his musical talents shone through his tenor voice, which was a staple in the church choir. Raymer’s love for the outdoors and guiding young minds was evident in his role as a camp counselor at church camps.
In addition to his community involvement, Raymer served at the Cushing Hospital in the auxiliary and found joy in woodworking, creating pieces that reflected the same care and attention he gave to all aspects of his life.
Raymer’s legacy is carried on by his loving life partner, Rosalie Vaught; his daughter, Margaret Nuscher; granddaughters, Emily Nuscher and her fiancé Andrew Matias, and Sarah Nuscher; daughter-in-law, Rosalea “Rosie” Cox; grandchildren, T.J. Cox and his wife Lindsey Bartgis, Tabitha DaMetz and her husband Justin, Celena Cox and her husband Ryan Sullivan, and Kira Cox and her fiancé Wesley Rice. His three great-grandchildren, Julian, Evelyn, and Hollis DaMetz, will also cherish his memory, as will his sister, Sylvia Thornhill.
Preceding him in death were his parents, Paul and Hazel Cox; his beloved wife, Mary Cox; his son, Tim Cox; one brother, and three sisters.
Raymer was a faith-filled, thoughtful, and loving man who left an indelible mark on the hearts of those he met. His life was a beautiful melody of service, compassion, and devotion that will continue to resonate with all who were blessed to know him. Raymer David Cox’s story is not one of an end but a continuing legacy of love and faith that will forever be remembered.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Raymer’s name to either Big Creek Church of the Brethren or First United Methodist Church.
A memorial service was held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at the First United Methodist Church. A private family burial took place at Big Creek Church of the Brethren Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to the family via an online guestbook at www.palmermarlerfh.com
