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Diane Beverley Cox, 77, of Bensville passed away peacefully in her sleep on September 17, 2020 in Annapolis, MD. She was born Judith Diane Cox on July 28, 1943, in Takoma Park, MD ~ one of six beloved children ~ to the late Annie Marguerite (Warder) Cox of La Plata. In addition to her dear mother, Diane was preceded in death by her life companion of over 35 years, John Messick; as well as her sister, Marilyn Cox Hancock; and her brothers, Dr. John H. Cox and Donald R. Cox, all of La Plata. Diane is survived by her only daughter, Tina Maria Hamilton (Marks) of North Beach, MD, and only granddaughter, Cameron Leann Marks of Annapolis, MD; sisters Beverley Cox Davis and her husband Norm Davis of Pittsboro, N.C., and Cheryl Cox De Atley and her husband Chris De Atley of Bensville, MD; a large extended family, and many cherished friends ~ all whom she adored. Family meant everything to Diane. Diane grew up in La Plata, and graduated from La Plata High School in 1961. She enjoyed staying in contact with many of her high school friends; and - in later years - gathering together for lunch from time to time. After graduation, she began her 35-year career at the U.S. General Services Administration in Washington, D.C., where she spent most of her time at GSA working in the National Capital Region’s (NCR) Business Service Center, and retired as the Director. Diane was a proud and accomplished public servant and prided herself on coaching small and minority-owned businesses on how to obtain government contracts. She was the recipient of hundreds of letters form U.S. Congressmen and Senators, thanking her for assisting their constituents. In addition, she received many awards and commendations and was recognized throughout the NCR for her expertise and friendly can-do spirit. Ultimately, Diane became the highly-regarded Director of the same agency where she had once started out as a clerk typist! In her personal life, Diane was a devoted mother and grandmother (Meemaw). Her love of music began at an early age; and, at the age of six, she won the La Plata High School talent contest with her vocal rendition of “Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo.” A passionate Elvis Presley fan, she had an extraordinary collection of Elvis memorabilia. The focal point of her home game room was a vintage jukebox with recordings of Elvis, the Eagles, Bob Seger, and all of her many favorite artists. This room, pool table included, became the hub for Diane and John to welcome and entertain friends and family. There were crab feasts, Christmas pageants, and unforgettable 4th of July celebrations, complete with riding lawnmower races. This was the true essence of their life together; and the door was always open. Above all, the safety and well-being of her loved ones was paramount to Diane; it was the driving force behind any and everything she ever did. This was, is now, and ever shall be The Perpetual, Incomparable Light and Legacy of Diane Beverley Cox. May this be so. May her Light shine on. In honor of her --- keep yourself safe and well.

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Diane Beverly Cox

July 28, 1943 - September 17, 2020