CHRISTAL B. COX

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Christal Bonita Cox, who left this world on July 5, 2024, at the age of 69. Christal was born on December 25, 1954, in Los Angeles, California, as one of six children to Ruth McNeal. She spent her formative years surrounded by family and the vibrant culture of her hometown.

In her youth, Christal was an avid athlete, excelling in track and field. Her love for sports was matched by her adventurous spirit, which led her to explore the world through travel, sightseeing, and a continuous quest for new experiences. She took great pride in learning and pursuing new activities, fearlessly challenging societal norms and biases to live life on her own terms.

Christal pursued higher education and earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a minor in English, which laid the foundation for her remarkable career and enriched her ability to communicate with compassion and clarity.

In 1977, Christal married Donald Cox, and they moved to the San Francisco Bay Area to begin a new chapter in their lives. Although they divorced in 1990, Christal and Donald remained close friends, demonstrating a deep respect and love for one another throughout the years.

Christal was a devoted mother to her two children, Kieran Cox, born September 20, 1979, and Michael Cox, born September 20, 1982, who predeceased her in 1989. She was a proud grandmother to Kieran Cox II, Quinton Cox, Odin Cox, and Sonya Cox, cherishing each moment spent with them and leaving them with fond memories of her love and guidance.

A dedicated registered nurse, Christal devoted almost her entire career to Highland Hospital in Oakland, California. Her passion for helping others was evident in her tireless work and compassionate care for her patients. Beyond her work at the hospital, she was actively involved in the Nursing Union SEIU 1021, dedicating countless hours to advocating for her fellow nurses. Her leadership and commitment were recognized when she served as Vice President of the Union.

In her retirement years, Christal became more actively involved with her church, joining the choir and donating her time to charitable activities aiding the community. Her dedication to serving others extended beyond her professional life, leaving a lasting impact on those around her.

Christal was a pillar of strength and support for her family, earning the title of matriarch through her unwavering dedication and love. She is survived by her siblings Ngoma McNeal, Kathy Thompson, Karol Thompson, and William McNeal, and was predeceased by her beloved sister, Karen Thompson, who passed away in 2023. In addition to her siblings, she leaves behind her nephews, nieces, and extended family members who fondly remember her as a loving aunt.

As we celebrate the life of Christal Bonita Cox, we remember her as a beacon of light and love, a woman who touched the lives of many with her warm heart and generous spirit. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.



 

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