Cozy W. Marks III

Born to Cozy Marks Jr. and Shirley Marks on August 13, 1958, Cozy Marks III grew up in a household that nurtured love, service, and ambition. Alongside his cherished siblings, Connie and Steven, he began his educational journey at Scullen Elementary and graduated from Northwest High School in 1976. A bright mind with boundless curiosity, Cozy pursued Electrical Engineering at Tuskegee University and later earned his MBA—blending technical brilliance with sharp business acumen.

Cozy married the love of his life, Sandra Marks, in 1983. Together, they built a family rooted in love, faith, and joy. He was a devoted father to Cozy Marks IV and Camille (Marks) Williams, and a proud “Pawpaw” to Cozenna, Mekhi, Cozy V, Amanus (MJ), and Milan (Tot).

Cozy’s professional legacy is marked by distinction and innovation. After a successful tenure as an executive at MEMC Electronic Materials Company, he continued his entrepreneurial path as CEO of CWM Enterprises and Success Metrics, LLC. Whether in the boardroom or the community, Cozy was known for his visionary leadership and unwavering integrity.

Beyond his career, Cozy was a pillar of spiritual strength. As Chairman of the Deacon Board at The Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, he served with humility, wisdom, and a heart for ministry. He also led as President of the Normandy School Board and Annie Malone Children & Family Services, embodying a life of service and advocacy.

To know Cozy was to know the beauty of balance. He was an audiophile, a cook with a seasoned palate, a lover of all music and fine art, a passionate gardener, a technophile, and a man who could turn a house into a home with his gift for renovation. He brought people together with laughter, warmth, and unforgettable meals. Whether mentoring young minds, running through Bellerive Acres, or entertaining family and friends, Cozy’s presence was magnetic.

Cozy was preceded in death by his father, Cozy Marks Jr. He leaves behind his mother, Shirley Marks; his beloved wife of over 40 years, Sandra Marks; his children, Cozy Marks IV and Camille Williams (Amanus); and his cherished grandchildren, Cozenna, Mekhi, Cozy V, Amanus (MJ), and Milan (Tot). He is also survived by his loving siblings, Connie Marks and Steven Marks (Erma); his mother-in-love, Clementine Porter; brother- and sister-in-law, Arthur Milton Porter III and Kathleen Hall (Steve); as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

His extended family—those bound by both blood and love—adored, respected, and admired him deeply. Their lives were enriched by his guidance, generosity, and boundless spirit.

His prayer will forever be in our hearts:

“God, we need You. We just can’t make it without You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”