Betty Poyner Cox

Surrounded by the family she loved so dearly, Betty Poynor Cox, 84, passed away peacefully at home on October 16,
2026.

Betty was born February 8, 1942, in Lafayette, Indiana, to Roma Barton Poynor and Russell Raymond Poynor. She grew up with her brother, Bruce, and sister, Julie, and shared an especially close relationship with her mother, whose strong faith helped shape Betty’s own lifelong testimony of Jesus Christ.

At 18, Betty met Bryant Cox while attending Iowa State University. Their courtship included an engagement by mail—Betty sent Bryant her “yes” in a letter, and her engagement ring arrived in the mail soon after. They were married June 29, 1962, in the Manti Utah Temple and shared 60 years together.

Betty and Bryant raised six children and embraced each of their spouses as part of the family. Betty once wrote, “I hope each of my children feel they are my favorite, because each is!” Betty delighted in her family and made everyone feel loved—and like they really ought to eat just one more helping. Her family will remember the world’s best sandwiches, homemade bread and jam, a stash of cookies always on hand, and a unique craft, toy, or activity ready to entertain the grandkids.

Betty was a registered nurse and a lifelong learner. After spending many years primarily at home raising her children,she returned to the University of Utah while juggling six children, work, and a church calling. She earned a master’s degree in mental health nursing and worked at Wasatch Canyons Hospital, where she loved helping people improve and find greater stability.

Betty had a witty sense of humor and did not take herself too seriously. She enjoyed reading, gardening, crafts, plays,and family history, and she continued taking piano lessons into her eighties. She once described one of her goals for retirement as to “read, have fun, be carefree and irresponsible.”

Betty’s faith in Jesus Christ was at the heart of her life. She and Bryant served a mission together in Louisiana. She wrote, “I absolutely, 100% sure, believe in God our Eternal Father and in His Son, Jesus Christ.” Her motto was, “‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart’ and then ‘Be not afraid.’ It works!”

Bryant preceded her in death in 2022, after 60 years of marriage. Betty is survived by her six children and their spouses, Allan (Terri) Cox, Kevin (Janell) Cox, Ryan (Carolyn) Cox, Joanna (Merrill) Squire, Ladawn (Greg) Mahrt, and Spencer(Annaliese) Cox; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her brother, Bruce Raymond Poynor; and her sister, Julie Poynor Boss.

A viewing will be held October 24, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., followed by the funeral at 11:00 a.m. at the Butler 7th Ward building, 1355 East 7200 South.