James Alton Cozby, 77, of Denton, passed away on Monday, April 15, 2013 with family at his side. He was born on November 12, 1935 in Ranger to James Crawford and Iva Corinne (Lester) Cozby. He graduated from Denton High School in 1954 and joined the United States Navy.
Alton married his high school sweetheart, Wanda Sue Harper on November 22, 1956 here in Denton at College View Baptist Church. He continued his military career in the United States Air Force until retiring in 1977 as a MSGT. He and his family returned to Denton where he worked for Hammett and Nash Surveying until his final retirement in 1998.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Wanda Sue Cozby of Denton; daughter, Sheila Cozby Bowles and her husband Wayne Bishop of Denton; son, James Eric Cozby of Denton; brother, Robert (Bob) Cozby and his wife Frazee of Carrollton; grandson James Allen Cozby of California; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Betty Lyn Jeter.
Alton was a strong but kind man. He had a great sense of humor, and will be missed by all who knew him.
A memorial service will be held at 10:30 AM Tuesday, April 23, 2013 in the chapel of Mulkey-Mason, Jack Schmitz and Son Funeral Home. Rev. Buddy Owens will officiate the service.