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Expert Tuesday (Jay Cox and His Artwork) by Doris Cox

Jay Cox was my grandfather. Before my grandmother passed away last year, I set out to find as many paintings as possible that he had painted. Mamaw also recounted some things about him. I've assembled a book with these paintings, but here is the forward found in the Book: Which is this weeks expert Tuesday Jay Cox and his Art Work.

Jay Cox was born on February 10th, 1910 on a small farm in Mt. Carmel, Greene County Tennessee. One of eight children, he had an active role helping on his family's farm where tobacco and corn were the main crops. Upon leaving home, he became a tinner working on various projects such as construction of the TVA Cherokee Dam. In time, he would find his main career in the construction trade.

In April 19, 1937 Jay Cox married Lillian Doris McCoy whom he met when working the family's fields. Together they would raise six children on their small farm in Greene County, Tennessee.

Jay Cox, being from what is termed the Bible belt, was exposed to the Bible in his younger years. However, in time he would become a major student of the Bible. Being exposed to the beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses, he would try with great zeal to disprove them. However, after he wore out a Bible in this effort, he became an active member of the local congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses in Greeneville, Tennessee. Here he was known for his quiet demeanor and zeal for the Bible Ministry for which Jehovah's Witnesses are recognized.

Beyond his building skills, Bible skills, and baseball skills (Cox was a well-known shortstop remembered by many in his home area as holding exceptional - dynamic fielding skills); Cox has left a lasting impression on many individuals through his artwork. Cox always had an interest in art and would enjoy painting and drawing when the opportunity afforded itself. He was an autodidactic painter, learning by watching others, reading books, and simple trial and error. His paintings were sold at various locations throughout East Tennessee, and can be found sprinkled through homes in the East Tennessee Area. His ability shines through in his paintings, as does his love for bright color, shape, and form; as well as nature, God, and the promises he turned to for strength in the scriptures.

-As Recounted by Lillian Doris Cox
August, 2001

View the Updated Gallery With Well over 100 of Jay Cox Paintings.