Could the seemingly idyllic upbringing of Lori Vallow Daybell, born Lori Norene Cox, in Southern California mask the darkness that would later consume her life? Her childhood, marked by a loving family and a devout Mormon upbringing, provides a stark contrast to the horrific crimes she would eventually be convicted of, leaving many to wonder about the events that transpired in between.
Born on June 26, 1973, in San Bernardino, California, Lori was the second youngest of five children born to Janis Lee Cox and Barry Lynn Cox. Raised in a "happy household," as some accounts suggest, Lori's early life appeared unremarkable, a far cry from the sensational headlines she would later generate. Her mother, Janis Cox, even affectionately referred to Lori as a "darling little girl" in the first episode of the documentary "Sins of Our Mother," a seemingly innocent statement that now carries a chilling weight.
The family's roots were firmly planted in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a faith that would come to play a significant, and perhaps unexpected, role in Lori's life. Growing up in a loving home, Lori, along with her siblings Alex, Summer, and Adam, experienced a childhood that was, on the surface, typical of the time. The Cox family's summers were often spent together, creating lasting memories, while during the year, the families would maintain contact through letters, further solidifying their bond.
While the details of Lori's early life are relatively well-documented, her father, Barry Cox, remains somewhat of an enigma. Information about him is scarce, with the media often focusing on the more sensational aspects of the case. However, a deeper look into his life reveals complexities that may have played a role in shaping his daughter's future. According to investigative journalist Leah Sottile in her book, "When the Moon Turns to Blood: Lori Vallow, Chad Daybell, and a Story of Murder, Wild Faith, and End Times," Stacey Cox was the oldest daughter of Janis and Barry Cox.
The influence of the Cox family extended beyond their immediate circle. Lori's cousin, Megan Eyden, has provided insight into Lori's upbringing, with Eyden's father being the brother of Lori's mother, Janis Lee Cox. Eyden has stated that her belief is that the most powerful influence in Ms. Vallows life was her father, Barry Cox. Further adding to the complexity of the story is the revelation that Barry Cox and his wife Janis were found to have owed more than $300,000 in back taxes after they refused to pay, with Barry asserting that federal income tax is unconstitutional. To protect assets from the IRS, Barry even put everything in Alex's name. This financial situation could have been a point of contention within the family.
Loris life took a dramatic turn when her children, seven-year-old JJ Vallow and sixteen-year-old Tylee Ryan, went missing in September. Their remains were later discovered on the property of her new husband, Chad Daybell, on June 9, 2020. The investigation revealed a complex web of relationships, religious beliefs, and alleged doomsday prophecies that led to the tragic deaths of the children. The deaths of Tammy Daybell, Joe Ryan, and Charles Vallow are also linked to this case, which added further mystery to the situation.
Lori's personal life was marked by a series of marriages, including her marriage to Joseph Anthony Ryan Jr. and Charles Vallow before marrying Chad Daybell. Each relationship seemed to build up to something more sinister.
The case garnered national attention, captivating the public with its blend of alleged cult activity, claims of spiritual beliefs, and the gruesome reality of the murders. In Ada County Courthouse in Boise, Idaho, on May 12, 2023, Lori Vallow Daybell listened as the jury's verdict was read. The verdict and subsequent trial, however, only scratched the surface of a case that continues to unfold, leaving many questions unanswered and the full story of Lori's life and actions still a subject of intense speculation and legal scrutiny.
| Full Name: | Lori Norene Cox (later Vallow Daybell) |
| Born: | June 26, 1973, San Bernardino, California, USA |
| Parents: | Janis Lee Cox & Barry Lynn Cox |
| Siblings: | Alex Cox, Summer Shiflet, and Adam Cox |
| Marriages: | Joseph Anthony Ryan Jr., Charles Vallow, Chad Daybell |
| Children: | JJ Vallow, Tylee Ryan |
| Convictions: | Multiple counts of murder and conspiracy to commit murder. |
| Known Associations: | Chad Daybell, Alex Cox |
| Key Events: | Missing children, suspicious deaths of several individuals |
| Religious Affiliation: | Latter-day Saint (LDS) Church, later alleged association with doomsday beliefs |
| Legal Status: | Currently serving a life sentence |
| Related Cases: | Chad Daybell |
| Reference: | Court Listener |
The life of Lori Vallow Daybell, from her upbringing in a seemingly normal household in Southern California to her involvement in the deaths of her children and others, remains a complex and troubling narrative. The details surrounding her life, including her relationships, religious beliefs, and financial troubles, paint a picture of a person who was capable of carrying out unspeakable acts. The case continues to be a subject of fascination and debate, as many people grapple with understanding how such a trajectory could occur.
