On July 5, 1961, in Oakland, California, a two-pound miracle was born to Larry and
Rosanna Cotton. Because of her delicate size, she was named Robin, a name that
would become synonymous with strength, creativity, and boundless love.
The second of eight Cotton children, Robin was a gifted and spirited soul. A proud
Castlemont Knight, she also sang with the Castleers before embracing her
greatest calling, motherhood. She lovingly raised her six children: Ruschell Nicole
(Nikki), Ashley Monique, Brittney Dominique, Julian Damone, Joel Andrew, and
Imarah Royale, instilling in them courage, honesty, and above all, a personal
relationship with God.
Robin’s talents were vast; she sang, baked, preached, styled hair, and saw
prophetically. Her pies, once celebrated in the Oakland Tribune, were only a
glimpse of her creativity. Beyond her gifts, Robin’s true legacy was her heart for
people. She fed the hungry, clothed the hurting, and welcomed the overlooked
with open arms. Wherever she saw a need, she met it.
Her walk with God was steadfast. From her early years at Oakland Bible Church to
her ordination under Apostle Delphine Hodges of Love Don’t Hurt Ministries,
Robin served faithfully as a minister and later as a Pastor. Until her transition,
she remained a devoted member of Christian Cathedral Worship Center under
Bishop Karene Gray, while supporting ministries locally and abroad.
Professionally, Robin’s hands shaped many lives. From health care as a CNA/LVN,
to education with Oakland Public Schools, and ultimately as a Child Development
Coordinator, she poured into others with excellence and compassion.
Robin was a woman of light and life. She never missed a family celebration and
always weaved God’s love into every moment. Her greatest treasures were her
family, her faith, and her service to God’s people.
On August 31, 2025, Pastor Robin Cotton made her triumphant and regal return to
her Heavenly Father. She is preceded in death by her parents, Larry & Rosanna,
and her siblings Philip (Modibo) and Gwendolyn. She leaves to cherish her
memory her children, Nicole, Ashley (Keda), Brittney, Julian, Joel, and Imarah;
siblings Michael (LaShay), Timothy, Sherry (Kenny), Michele (Guillermo), Larie,
her nieces, nephews, and a host of family and friends who will forever carry her
legacy of love.
Pastor Robin Gail Cotton has finished her race with grace, grit, and greatness. Her
crown is now eternal.
A Celebration of Life for Pastor Robin Cotton will be held Thursday, September 18, 2025
at 11:00 AM at the Evergreen Missionary Baptist, 408 W MacArthur Blvd, Oakland, CA 94609.
