Helen M. Cox

In Loving Memory of Helen M. Cox

Helen, a beloved mother, grandmother, matriarch, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2026.  She was the last surviving sibling of nine children, marking the end of a beautiful and vibrant generation for her family.

Born and raised in the scenic Califon and Glen Gardner areas of Hunterdon County, Helen’s heart always belonged to her family. At a young age, she married her first love, Ernest S. Pharo, Sr. Together, they shared a long relationship and raised six wonderful children, creating a home filled with love and laughter. Later in life, Helen found love again with her second husband, Verl Jack Cox. Together, they shared a passion for history and spent countless happy hours antiquing, hunting for hidden treasures, and enjoying each other's company.

Helen was perhaps best known for her incredible baking skills. Her kitchen was always filled with the comforting aroma of fresh treats, and she passed those baking techniques down to multiple generations of her family.

Above all else, Helen loved her family. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were truly her everything, and her eyes lit up brightest whenever they were near.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Mary Jane Hartrum Bishop and Edward S. Klemke, her eight siblings, Emma, Louella,  Willard, Alfred,  Alice, Gladys,  Richard, and Edward and her beloved son, Donald E. Pharo Sr.

Her legacy of love, warmth, and resilience lives on through her remaining five children,  Robert E. Pharo, Ernest S. Pharo Jr, Karen M. Brady, Helen M. Straukas, and Dorothy A. Pharo, as well as her many adored grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Services are private. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Helen M. Cox, please visit our floral store.