Robert Schley Cox

Robert Schley Cox, 79, of Owensboro, passed away Friday, January 17, 2025. He was born in Owensboro to the late Robert S. Cox, Jr. and Billie Hines Cox. 

 He graduated from Ball State University with a master’s degree in journalism and photojournalism. Schley was intelligent, gifted in many ways and pursued what he found truly interesting and fulfilling. His work reflected that. Many will know him through his co-ownership of Party Paper Place on Washington Avenue, where they specialize in creative balloon décor and structures. However, his work also included a short time with the Louisville Courier-Journal, a career selling insurance to pharmacies and pharmacists, a time of teaching at Western Kentucky University, the role of a lay minister and, most recently, providing court security through the sheriff’s office. He met his wife, Jeanette, through her work at the American Cancer Society and helped her with cancer prevention initiatives. His ability to build meaningful relationships resulted in many different circles of friends.

 Schley was a key member of Peace Episcopal Church in Rockport and a former President of Rotary Club of Owensboro. He was a voracious reader with a broad array of interests. He showed dogs and was once a special deputy who used his bloodhound to track people for law enforcement. Schley was a Ham Radio operator, committed enough to take his equipment to the top of Clingman’s Dome to get the best possible signal! He was also an avid bicyclist, having completed the RAGBRAI Ride across Iowa several times. Schley lived a full life and will be missed by many.

 He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Jeanette Woodward; children, Anna, Joe, Hannah and Jessica; two grandchildren; a brother, Dr. Stephen Cox (Sarah); a niece, Rebecca (Ilias); great-nephew, George; his in-laws, Bob and Mildred Gilles; and his beloved dog, Scully Jackson. 

 The memorial service will be held at 12:00 PM, Wednesday, January 29 at Peace Episcopal Church in Rockport. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until the time of service at the church.

Care by Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory.

 The family requests expressions of sympathy take the form of donations to either: Peace Episcopal Church, 1092 N. SR 66, Rockport, Indiana 47635 or Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Kentucky, 3419 Wathen’s Crossing, Owensboro, KY 42301. 

 Messages and condolences for the family may be shared at www.glenncares.com.