Introduction
Bobby Cox stands as one of Major League Baseball’s most iconic figures—known for his fiery managerial style and long-standing legacy with the Atlanta Braves. But beyond his Hall of Fame career lies a deeply personal and ongoing story of resilience. This article delves into the health setbacks Bobby Cox has faced since 2019, explores his family background—including his children—and celebrates how he continues to remain a beloved figure both on and off the field.
1. Health: What Happened to Bobby Cox?
1.1 The 2019 Stroke
In early April 2019, Bobby Cox suffered a massive stroke, which led to a prolonged hospitalization. His recovery was uncertain, but early signs were positive—he regained feeling on his right side, began walking again, and his speech improved.
1.2 Aftermath and Ongoing Challenges
Roughly a year post-stroke, Cox was diagnosed with congestive heart failure, which significantly slowed his recovery and caused chronic fatigue.
1.3 Occasional Public Appearances
Despite his health challenges, Cox has made rare but inspiring appearances at Braves games. In September 2019, he returned to SunTrust Park, walking on his own and receiving a standing ovation. Fast forward to July 2024, fans caught a heartwarming moment on the jumbotron when Cox stood from his wheelchair and waved to the crowd—sparking a surge of emotion and cheers.
1.4 Recent Recognition & Ongoing Progress
On August 23, 2025, Cox made a rare public appearance at Truist Park to honor the 1995 Braves World Series champions. Though still in recovery, his return highlighted his enduring connection with the Braves and the strength of his spirit.
2. Family & Personal Life
2.1 Marriages & Children
Bobby Cox’s personal life is marked by two marriages and a large family:
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First marriage (to Mary Xavier, 1961–1977): They had five children—Bobby Jr., Connie, Debbie, Shelly, and Randy.
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Second marriage (to Pamela Boswell, later Pamela Cox, since 1976 or 1978—sources vary): They have three daughters—Keisha, Kami, and Skyla.
In total, Bobby Cox is a father to eight children.
2.2 Family Support
Throughout his health journey, Cox has received unwavering support from family and the baseball community. In the immediate aftermath of his stroke, his family issued a grateful statement thanking fans for their messages and prayers, highlighting the emotional support that surrounded him.
3. Legacy & Resilience
Cox’s legacy in MLB is storied. He managed the Atlanta Braves from 1978–1981 and again from 1990–2010, plus a stint with the Toronto Blue Jays. His tenure included:
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14 consecutive division titles (1991–2005), a World Series win in 1995, and five NL pennants.
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He holds the MLB record for most ejections (158) and is one of only four managers named “Manager of the Year” in both leagues.
His enduring passion and personality continue to influence the Braves organization and fans, even amid ongoing health challenges.
4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is Bobby Cox still alive?
Yes, as of August 2025, Bobby Cox is alive. He has battled health issues since a stroke in April 2019 but continues to inspire with occasional public appearances.
Q2: What health issues has Bobby Cox faced?
He suffered a serious stroke in April 2019, followed by congestive heart failure diagnosed around 2020. His recovery has been slow, though he has shown improvement in mobility and speech.
Q3: How many children does Bobby Cox have?
Bobby Cox has eight children—five from his first marriage (Bobby Jr., Connie, Debbie, Shelly, Randy) and three daughters (Keisha, Kami, Skyla) with his second wife, Pamela.
Q4: When did Bobby Cox make public appearances after his illness?
He reappeared in September 2019 at SunTrust Park, and later in July 2024, he was shown on the jumbotron waving to fans. Most recently, he attended an event on August 23, 2025, honoring the 1995 Braves team.
Q5: How has his legacy continued despite his health challenges?
Cox remains a legendary figure in Braves history, known for his leadership, fiery style, and championship pedigree. Even with limited appearances, his presence continues to resonate deeply with fans and players alike.
Conclusion
Bobby Cox’s journey since 2019 has been marked by serious health setbacks—but also by remarkable resilience, character, and the unwavering support of his family and community. Although his public appearances are rare, each one serves as a powerful reminder of his enduring spirit and the lasting mark he’s left on baseball and those who admire him.
