He was born September 23, 1931 in rural Freeman, MO and his birth name was Roy Martin Osborn. He was adopted at 2 1/2 years of age by Lewis and Viola Cox and they changed his name to Billy Martin Cox. He went to numerous country grade schools. He graduated high school at Amstedam, MO in 1949.
He was married to Twila Dudley of Amoret, MO, whom is now deceased, and they had four children. Three are now deceased, Gail, Merrilee, and Dudley. My one remaining son, Martin of Tonganoxie, KS. I divorced my first wife in 1975.
I worked numerous jobs including Bendix in Kansas City, MO, KCPL Power Plant, Lacygne, KS. I played music at numerous clubs and threaters, and recorded at Nashville, TN. I painted many oil paintings and portraits. I retired in 1993.
I married Betty Ross of Rich Hill, MO in February 1997 and divorced in July 1997. I moved to Montrose, MO then to Wheatland, MO where I played music at the non-alcoholic dance at Pittsburg, MO for three ears and retired from music in 2003. Have many fond memories of music, children, and many good friends.
I also drilled many water wells locally with my step-father's drilling rig. Also tuned piano part-time for 40 years.
A graveside memorial service will be 2 pm Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at Scott Cemetery, Amsterdam, MO with Chaplain Meghann Case officiating under the direction of Hathaway-Peterman Funeral Home, Wheatland, MO.
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