Gayford "Alan" Cox

Gayford “Alan” Cox, 72, of West Union, West Virginia, passed away peacefully at home on March 27, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on May 12, 1953, at St. Joseph's Hospital in Parkersburg, West Virginia, to the late Gayford Orlan Cox and Mary Louise Maxwell Cox.

On October 12, 1974, Alan married the love of his life, Jackie Calhoun Cox. Together they built a life centered on God, love, family, and laughter.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Jackie; his children, Angela Dawn Hayhurst and her husband Tony of Salem, West Virginia, and Melanie Ann Blair and her husband Ben of West Union, West Virginia; and his cherished grandchildren, Brandon Nicholson (Patty), Daron Nicholson (Taylor), Shasta Hayhurst (companion Chris Meneffee), Dallas Hayhurst, and his little buddy Nate Blair. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Daniel Lewis Nicholson, and (anxiously awaiting) Hutson Keith Nicholson, Wyatt Lee Nicholson, Owen Russell Nicholson, Robert James Victor, Nekoli Riffel, and Andrew Riffel. Alan is also survived by his siblings, Diana Knight of Georgia, Sheila McCutchan (Butch) of West Union, and Gregory Cox (companion Mary) of Harrisville, along with several nieces and nephews. He leaves behind his two beloved cats, Pee Dinky and Hank, who brought him great comfort and companionship.

Alan was a proud 1971 graduate of Doddridge County High School. In his early years, he served his community as an EMT with the Doddridge County Emergency Squad. In 1971, Alan began his career with the Harrison Rural Electrification Association (HREA) as a lineman. He became HREA Operations Manager in the mid-1980's. He retired in 2013 after 42 years of service.

After retiring, Alan fully embraced the outdoors and the simple joys of life. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, frog gigging, and spending time in nature. He was a member of the Lions Club, the BEW Union, and a faithful member of the West Union Christian Church.

On November 15, 2025, Alan rededicated his life to Christ. Alan's faith provided him with comfort, peace, and inspired him to love and care for those around him. Alan never met a stranger and could always find a friend. Alan was a Christian gentleman who enjoyed being a mentor, sharing an encouraging word, and celebrating the best in others. He was the first to provide wise advice, when needed, without imposing himself on others.

Alan will be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor, his love of laughter, and his ability to bring joy to those around him. He treasured time with his family and friends and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

His legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to family will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

Family and friends will be received at Davis Funeral Home – West Union, 212 Front Street, West Union, on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, from 2–8 PM, and again on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, from 9:00 AM until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 AM with Pastor Ben Blair officiating. Private Interment will follow at the Calhoun-Cox Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Doddridge County Emergency Squad, PO Box 115, West Union, WV 26456. Online condolences and memories may be shared at Davis Funeral Home – West Union’s website. Davis Funeral Home – West Union is honored to serve the Cox family.

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