Ed Cotham

Ed was born on February 20, 1939, in Frog Jump, TN, to Russell and Cathleen Cotham. At the age of seven, he moved with his family to Osceola, AR, where he spent much of his early life working on the family farm, developing a strong work ethic that would define him throughout his life.

On December 12, 1959, Ed married his childhood sweetheart, Ruby Sanders Moore Cotham, beginning a devoted marriage that spanned 66 years. Together, they built a loving family and welcomed two sons: Keith Edward Cotham in 1963 and Marcus Wade Cotham in 1967.

Ed was widely respected for his skill and dedication as a craftsman. His excellence in carpentry earned him numerous awards throughout his career, including being named the first Midsouth Craft Professional of the Year in the Carpentry category in 2001.

An avid outdoorsman, Ed found great joy in spending time with his sons and grandchildren camping, fishing, and hunting. He had a deep appreciation for history and his community. In his leisure time, he enjoyed watching classic westerns, especially Gunsmoke. He was also a proud member of the Sons of the American Revolution.

Above all, Ed’s life was rooted in his faith. A devoted Christian, he faithfully served the Lord in many roles, including as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and missionary. He had a passion for sharing the Gospel and lived his life as a testament to his beliefs.

Ed is survived by his beloved wife, Ruby Cotham; his sons, Keith Cotham and Marcus (Janet) Cotham; his cherished grandchildren, Tyler (Abby) Cotham, Macie Cotham, and Brittney (Chance) Dalehite; and great-grandchildren, Evelyn and Barrett Dalehite.

The family will receive friends for a time of visitation at Brantley Funeral Home on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 from 12-1 pm with a funeral service to follow at 1:00 pm. Burial will follow at Blocker Cemetery.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.