ELDER JACOB COX

 

   Jacob M. Cox was born in Fayette County, Pa., December 15, 1799. When a youth, he was brought by his parents to Kentucky, where he resided until the fall of 1818 (probably), when he was married, and soon after moved to Jefferson County, Ind. The following winter he united with Mount Pleasant Church, where he received license to preach, either in 1827 or 1828.

   In May, 1829, Hopewell Church was constituted, and Brother Cox moved his membership to that point, it being nearer his residence. He was ordained at Hopewell in 1830, and in March following called to the pastorate, serving successfully until he moved from the county, a period of fifteen years. During that time he also held pastoral relations with Bethany, Lick Branch, White River, Mt. Moriah, Zion and others, in all of which his services were efficient and productive of good.

   In 1845, he moved to Jennings County, and united with Graham Church, Madison Association, serving as pastor several years; and also at Hopewell, Ripley County; Bethel, New Marion, Otter Creek and Brush Creek, and at Taylorville, Sand Creek Association, continuing to preach until health and strength failed.

   During the early years of his ministry, Elder Cox was compelled to labor hard in clearing up a farm in the green woods; and indeed, with a large family to support, and with but small compensation for pastoral services, industry and frugality were indispensable; yet in his later years he was placed in very comfortable circumstances. Secular employment, however, was never allowed to interfere with ministerial duties.

   In visiting the sick and afflicted; in comforting the bereaved; in rendering the last sad duties to the departed, and in ministering to the needs of all classes, Elder Cox was the peer of any other. As he lived, so he died--an humble, faithful follower of Jesus; loved and respected by all, and at peace with God and all mankind.

   He died on Sunday morning, September 15, 1867, aged nearly sixty-eight. The following day he was buried in Graham Cemetery, funeral services beign conducted by Elder F.D. Bland. Remarks were also made by Elders W.T. Stott, Thomas Hill, R. Wilson, _____ Griggs and J.S. Reed.


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