Richard Cotton

On Monday, June 12th Richard Cotton, age 70, passed away peacefully into the arms of his heavenly Father. He was diagnosed this March with pancreatic cancer; and unfortunately, the fight became unbearable for his body. The days leading up to Richard’s passing he was surrounded by family and friends. While we may shed a few tears, Richard would encourage us to take solace in the words of John 11:25-26 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?

Richard grew up just outside the town of Andalusia, Alabama in the community of Stanley surrounded by kin and LOVE. His parents were adamant he obtain a college degree, and Auburn University was where Richard full-filled that life-long goal and graduated with Very High Honors in Chemical Engineering. This propelled him to a successful 41+ year career with the Baton Rouge ExxonMobil Refinery.

Richard was many things to many people; but first and foremost, he was a child of God, forgiven and redeemed through the precious blood of Jesus. He strived to always see and take opportunities to share his personal story with others to encourage their faith. He was also a Family man and an Auburn man. Highly intelligent, witty, and as a true encourager he possessed a natural inclination to mentor others.

Richard's second greatest love was his family. Richard's parents, William and Christine Cotton, along with numerous Uncles, Aunts, and Cousins played an instrumental role in shaping his character and instilling core values. His bond with his mother, was particularly strong, they shared countless adventures fishing and hunting together.

Sherrie, his devoted wife, stood by his side for an incredible 49 years, exemplifying the true essence of a covenant marriage. Through the highs and lows, in sickness and in health, their love persevered, abiding by the sacred vows they made on December 15, 1973.

The cherished memories of Richard's life revolved around his children and grandchildren. Watching Chris and Neal in football and baseball, and Valery in dance and cheerleading, brought him joy. As his family grew with the addition of two daughter in-laws and a son in-law along with the blessing of seven grandchildren, he relished his role as the family Patriarch and the title of “Poppy”. He would light up when attending or watching Auburn Football, talking all things space and rockets, sharing stories, shooting slingshots, or teaching them how to play Rummy among other things from his own youth. Richard treasured every moment spent with his family.

Richard was grateful for the multitude of friends who graced his life through-out the years. Some of these were friends from his youth in Andalusia, Auburn college buddies, and Exxon Mobile colleagues.

Richard lived his life with clear priorities: faith, family, friends, and his beloved Auburn University. His unwavering faith in God guided his path, and he often emphasized the importance of the Auburn Creed, which encapsulated many of his core beliefs. Commitment to hard work, education, honesty, and one’s country resonated deeply within Richard and he endeavored to walk humbly with his God, drawing inspiration from Micah 6:8.

He was preceded in death by his father, William Cotton and mother, Eula Christine Cotton; by his paternal grandparents, Andrew and Bessie Cotton; by his maternal grandparents Sydney and Montezuma Prestwood.

Richard is survived by his faithful wife of 49 years, Sherrie Danley Cotton; their three children and respective families: Christopher and Chanel Cotton (Christina), Neal and Lindsey Cotton (Hannah Grace, William Weldon, Charles Richard, and John Parker), Valery and Kyle Brown (Evan, and Alex).

Relatives and Friends of the family are invited to attend the Visitation on Saturday, June 17th beginning at 10:00am and a Celebration of Life service held at 12:00pm at Central Funeral Home, 9995 Hooper Rd. Central, Louisiana. Graveside interment will be on Monday, June 19th at Judson Baptist Cemetery in the Stanley community at 10:00am.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your favorite charity.