Dale Thomas Cox Jr., affectionately known as “Skip,” passed away on March 31, 2026 at the age of 73. He was born on January 2, 1953 at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma to Dale Sr. and Anna L. Cox. In 1958, the family settled in Norfolk, Virginia, where Skip grew up in the Oakdale Farms area and formed many lifelong friendships.

Skip met his future wife, Pat, in his early twenties, and they married in 1977, returning to the neighborhood where he was raised to start their family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Pat Cox; his children, Michele Stevens (Eva), and Christopher (Chris) Cox; daughter-in-law, Amanda Cox, and his cherished grandchildren, Marleigh, Austin, and Hannah, who lovingly knew him as “Poo Poo” and provided him with incredible joy.

A hardworking and independent spirit, Skip spent much of his career in lawn care and founded Skip’s Lawn Care and Maintenance in 1982, operating the business until his retirement in 2015. After moving to Gloucester, Virginia, he developed a passion for antiquing and opened What Not’s in 1997. He loved “junking,” finding good deals, and the friendships formed around his shop, especially at the spot fondly known as “Skip’s Corner.”

Skip was preceded in death by his brother, Mike Cox, and is survived by his sisters, Patty Hutson and Donna Cox, and his brother, Bill Cox. He also enjoyed the beach, traveling, and collecting crocks, old bottles, and antique toys.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 23 from 2-5 p.m. at YROC–Waterside Banquet Room at Yacht Haven Marina (above pool area), Gloucester Point, Virginia.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Skip’s honor be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation.