John W. Fox, of Radford, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, Aug. 12, 2021.
John was retired from Radford University and had previously worked at the Radford Army Ammunitions Plant and Kollmorgen.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Elliot and Byrdann Fox.
He is survived by his wife, Betty B. Jones; his daughter, JoAnna Fox and her fiancé, Jered Trayler; beloved siblings Catherine Fox (John Didier) of Washington D. C., Jim Fox (Mary Anne) of Alexandria, and Jeff Fox (Carol) of Alexandria; and many other family members and friends whom he loved.
John was a kind and gentle soul with a unique sense of humor. He was committed to his family and was always proud to be a dad, and what a good dad he was. He will be remembered as a loyal and dedicated supporter of community events as well as supporting others to become all that they could be. He was involved in many community activities, such as Kiwanis, “See You at Nine” WVRU, scouting, the Memorial Day Committee, Unity Christian Church, and Radford VFW Post #776.
He was also an active caver with a deep commitment to cave conservation.
John Fox . . . caver, father, husband, brother, cousin, friend, uncle, nephew, veteran, “dancing bear,” lover of music, the I.T. go-to person, DJ extraordinaire, Boy Scout, and friend of bats. Always extending a helping hand, he will be remembered.
Sometimes the universe sends us a lesson and sometimes the universe sends us a guiding light. In the underground darkness of caves, John was a beacon. Walking a trail or the city streets, climbing a mountain or playing music, or setting up or running a sound system, John was a beacon of kindness, joy, and genuine concern for the well-being of others. He leaves behind a light so bright it will continue to shine now that he is gone.
Due to COVID, a memorial service will be planned at a later date. John’s memory may be honored by making a donation to The National Speleological Society, 6001 Pulaski Pike, Huntsville, Ala.335810-1122, or Unity Christian Church, 400 Tyler Ave., Radford, Va. 24141 or Radford EMS, 1500 Wadsworth St., Radford, Va. 24141.
The Fox family is in the care of Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory in Radford.
