Evelyn Jean (Hanwright) Cox, 88, died peacefully on July 14 at Silver Creek Manor in Bristol. She is survived by John Fredrick Cox, her loving husband of 65 years.
Evelyn was born in Brooklyn, NY, the oldest of seven children, and resided in Valley Stream, NY, for her early years. She graduated from Valley Stream Central High School and trained at Mary Immaculate Hospital, graduating as a registered nurse, later receiving her Bachelor’s degree from St. Joseph’s College, New York.
She and John married in 1950 and spent many years on Long Island, enjoying sailing, traveling and friends while raising six children. She was a loving mother to Kevin and wife Joy of South Carolina; Kathleen and husband Alan, of Virginia; Thomas, predeceased; Anne and husband Stephen of Arizona; Eileen and cherished companion Gerhard of New Hampshire; and Jean and husband Lawrence of Bristol. She was the loving grandmother of 13 grandchildren and one great grandson. She had a wide circle of friends with whom she kept in touch over the years.
Evelyn worked for 30 years as a pediatric nurse at Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip, NY. She helped to establish and run multiple specialty pediatric clinics, including Cystic Fibrosis, Blood Dyscrasia, Renal and Muscular Dystrophy. She provided both organizational oversight and direct patient care. She was loved by her patients and their parents for her passionate support.
Evelyn was a member of the Catholic Nurses Association, with the mission to promote the nursing profession, sponsor young nurses with scholarships and provide continuing education for registered nurses. After her retirement Evelyn continued to volunteer as a supervisor and nurse of a clinic, providing free care to those in need.
For the past seven years Evelyn and John made Bristol their home, enjoying their time with many new friends.
A service was held for Evelyn on July 16 in Bristol. The family requests that anyone who wishes to make a gift in honor of her life consider making a donation to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 6931 Arlington Road, Bethesda, MD 20814 or online at cff.org.
Arrangements by Smith Funeral and Memorial Services. www.wjsmithfh.com.