Milton, W.Va. — The Cox family turned a heartbreaking loss into lasting hope by unveiling the Maribeth Cox Foundation at a community Halloween celebration Saturday. The foundation will award scholarships to students who have been adopted, are in foster care, or live with disabilities—causes that reflected Maribeth’s own life journey.
Remembering a bright future
Maribeth Cox, an adopted child from China, overcame a disability to become valedictorian at Marshall University. Her mother, Kari Cox, recalled that Maribeth was “always on the Dean’s List” and had even purchased her own home at 22. In November 2021, Maribeth was tragically killed by a car while exiting a bus, cutting short a promising future.
Turning grief into action
For the past five years, the Cox family has processed their loss while planning a way to honor Maribeth’s legacy. The result is a nonprofit foundation that will fund scholarships for children who share Maribeth’s experiences—those adopted from abroad, in foster care, or living with disabilities. “We want to spread her love, her kindness, and her love for education to the community,” Kari said during the event.
Community celebration
The launch took place at a family‑friendly Halloween bash featuring inflatables, giveaways, and local vendors. Attendees enjoyed the festive atmosphere while learning about the foundation’s mission. “Halloween has always been a big thing for our family,” Kari explained, noting that the holiday was also Maribeth’s birthday.
Scholarship details
While specific award amounts were not disclosed, the foundation plans to partner with local businesses and churches to raise funds. Applications will be open to eligible students throughout West Virginia, with priority given to those who demonstrate academic promise and a commitment to community service—values Maribeth embodied.
Support from local partners
Several community members and faith‑based groups expressed enthusiasm for the initiative. Pastor James Whitaker of Milton Baptist Church said, “Providing educational opportunities for these children aligns with our Christian call to serve the vulnerable.” Local businesses also pledged in‑kind donations and volunteer hours to help the foundation get off the ground.
Looking ahead
The Cox family hopes the foundation will become a lasting tribute to Maribeth’s spirit. “More than anything, we want to give back some of what she gave to us,” Kari said. The foundation will host an annual scholarship award ceremony, beginning next spring, to recognize recipients and keep Maribeth’s memory alive in the Milton community.
Original reporting: WCHS Eyewitness News Charleston (local) — read the source article.
