MAY 1, 1948 – MAY 27, 2026
In the Care of Laird Funeral Home
Elizabeth Ann “Beth” Wallace, beloved mother, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord on May 27, 2026, following a determined battle with pancreatic cancer.
Beth was born on May 1, 1948, in Nacogdoches, Texas, to Gerald and Nelma “Chuckie” Wallace. As the oldest of three children, she developed the strong work ethic and caring nature that would guide her throughout her life. She attended Nacogdoches High School and graduated with the Class of 1966.
After graduation, Beth trained as a phlebotomist and devoted her career to serving others in the medical field. She took pride in helping people through difficult moments and approached her work with compassion and dedication.
In May 1968, she married David Cox at Shady Grove Baptist Church. Together they built a life rooted in family, faith, and shared interests. Seven years later, they welcomed their only child, a daughter, Misty Leigh, who became the center of Beth’s world.
Beth had a lifelong love of horses. She spent many years showing Quarter Horses and later developed a fondness for Tennessee Walking Horses. Though she eventually rode less, her appreciation for horses never diminished, and she took great joy in supporting Misty’s involvement in showing them as well.
Photography became one of Beth’s greatest passions. She had a keen eye for capturing meaningful moments, whether in her family, her horses, her flowers, or the simple scenes that often went unnoticed by others. She also loved gardening and could transform any yard into a colorful display of blooms. Wherever she lived, flowers flourished under her care.
More than anything, Beth was devoted to the people she loved. She offered guidance without judgment, encouragement without hesitation, and support whenever it was needed. Friends, family members, neighbors, and even strangers found comfort in her presence. She had a gift for making others feel welcome, valued, and understood.
In May 2025, Beth was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Throughout her illness, she faced each challenge with faith, resilience, and determination. After a long fight, surrounded by her daughter and loved ones, the Lord called her home on May 27, 2026. While her family grieves her loss, they take comfort in knowing she is at peace and free from pain.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Gerald Wallace and Nelma “Chuckie” Chancellor Wallace, and her brother, Billy Bob Wallace, all of Lilbert, Texas.
She is survived by her daughter, Misty Leigh Cox of Nacogdoches, Texas; David Cox of Lufkin, Texas; her sister, Kay Russell and husband, Lono, of Lilbert, Texas; her niece Megan Brown and daughters Kylee Hooper and Cadee Justice of Lilbert, Texas; her cousin, Julia Terry and husband, David, of Laneville, Texas; and countless friends whom she considered family.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Rohte Winthrop, Kimberly Bradshaw, Reba Griffith, Cathleen Posey, Trey Russell, and hospice nurses Brittany Wallace and Sasha Husbands for their care, support, and friendship during Beth’s illness.
Misty invites all who knew and loved Beth to join them in celebrating her life at a memorial reception on Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at The Rusty Spur Winery & Bistro in Nacogdoches, Texas. A eulogy honoring her life will be delivered at 4:00 p.m.
Beth measured success not by possessions or wealth, but by the relationships she built and the lives she influenced. Her legacy is one of service, compassion, and steadfast devotion to those she loved. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all whose lives were enriched by her presence.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Elizabeth “Beth”, please Laird Funeral Home’s floral store.