Laura Lee Cox, age 85, of Rochelle, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 14, 2006 at her home with her family by her side. She was born on May 10, 1921 in Ponatoc, MS, the daughter of Edward and Gillie Mae (Elliott) Russell. Laura married James Alton Cox on Nov. 17, 1944, in Memphis, TN and he preceded her on July 9, 1970. She was also preceded by her parents, 3 sisters: Agnes (Tommy) Ballard, Odell (Mark) Smith and Blanche Caldwell and 2 brothers: Ruey and Holder Russell. She had previously been employed as a waitress for many years and also at the Del Monte Corp.

Survivors include a son: James (Catherine) Cox of Creston, IL; 2 daughters: Barb Knight and
Monica (Rick) Paul both of Rochelle; 2 brothers: James (Jewell) Russell and P.D. (Daisey) Russell both of Rochelle; a sister: Eddie Mae (Roy) Cardott and sister-in-law: Jennie Faye Russell both of Rochelle; 4 grandchildren: James (Michelle) Paul, Richard (Kris) Knight, Rhonda Knight and Patricia Williams; 11 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandson, and 1 great great granddaughter due in February. Special friends: Beverly Daugherty and Carol Stewart. Brother in law: Hershell Caldwell of Rochelle.

Funeral services will be held at Unger-Horner Funeral Home on Monday, Dec. 18, 2006 at 11 AM with Rev. Judy Williams, officiating. Visitation will be prior to the funeral service on Monday, Dec. 18th from 10 to 11:00 AM. Burial will be at White Rock Cemetery in Kings, IL. Memorials can be made to Ogle County Hospice.