Edward “Ed” Lee Cox, 85, of Indianapolis passed away Sunday, November 26, 2017.

Ed was born in Indianapolis, IN on August 20, 1932 to the late Kenneth Lee and Georgia (Harold) Cox.  After graduating with his Bachelor’s Degree from Butler University, he went to work for Eli Lilly, retiring after 40 years as a Senior Packaging Engineer.

Ed had a natural talent that made him stand out.  He picked up the trombone at the young age of 14 and quickly became a member of the best jazz band in the city.  He was the best around.  He often would travel around with his band and play at special events, like high school dances, weddings as well as a long list of famous professional entertainers.  They played in USO clubs, Greek houses with regular Friday night gigs.  He had an affinity for the USO and this entertaining of the troops naturally led him into charity music.  Ed was a proud member of the Indianapolis Brass Choir, where he served on the board of directors.  The Brass Choir is a charitable organization that travels around and plays events, then donate all the money they raised to various organizations.  He was also very proud of the Quintet he organized that also performed for charity.  

Ed was a life-long learner.  He enjoyed reading books and listening to lectures, about anything that caught his attention.  He was a Civil War buff and loved history.  He especially loved learning about Native Americans and WWII. 

He was a natural story teller with a gift for entertaining, and many people today still remember fondly his stories of his travels, both through work and as a musician.  Part of what made him such a gifted individual was his natural drive for perfection.  He wanted to be the best and have the best, and would research until both were attainable and he could get them. 

Never one to stay idle, he liked to have projects going that kept him busy.  He liked nature and maintaining his lawn, especially mowing grass. 

He was a life-long member of Southport Presbyterian Church and was a man of quiet faith, preferring to show his devotion through his music.

Ed was a 58 year member of the fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons, including his membership with Mystic Tie Masonic Lodge #398.

This drive for excellence carried over into parenthood.  No one was a greater supporter of their children than Ed.  Whatever his children were interested in, he would throw himself into with enthusiasm to be envied.  Such as if his son was going to be a Cub Scout, Ed would become the leader of the troupe. 

He loved his family and he loved being a grandfather. 

Ed is survived by his children, Christopher Cox and Andrea L (Schuyler) Culver; and his grandchildren Grace, Blessing, Sophia, Dakota, and Makayla.

In addition to his parents, Ed is preceded in passing by his wife of 55 years, Mary Ann Cox.

Funeral Service for Ed will be 10 AM, Saturday, December 2, 2017 at Fountain Square Cremation & Funeral Services.  Family and friends will gather from 5 PM – 7 PM, Friday, December 1, at the Mortuary.    On Friday evening at the Mortuary the band will play from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM highlighting some of the music that was so special to his life.  Burial will follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Indianapolis Brass Choir or Phillips Music Guild.

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