Neal Cotton

COTTON, Neal, 96, of Pompano Beach, FL, passed away peacefully at home on April 19, 2017 while surrounded by several close friends. Neal was born in Worcester, MA on April 17, 1921 where he was raised. After graduating from High School, Neal worked for the Defense Department at the Boston Navy Yard. He was a WWII Veteran, having served overseas in Okinawa, Japan from 1943 to 1946, where he achieved the rank of Sergeant. After his honorable discharge, Neal married the late Janet Laipson and they had two children, Christopher Cotton and Amy Cotton. Neal began his studies thereafter, having studied at Worcester Art Museum School; Massachussetts College of Art (BSA); Worcester State College; Cranbrook Academy, Michigan (MFA); Institute of Contemporary Art, Massachusetts College of Art; and Institute Allende, San Miguel, Mexico. Neal obtained a double Master’s Degree in art. He enjoyed showing his art all over Cape Cod. One of his finest paintings is hanging in the deCordova Museum in Lincoln, MA. Prior to moving to Pompano Beach, Neal lived in Orleans, MA on Cape Cod where he lived for over 30 years. Neal was predeceased by his son, Christopher Cotton. He leaves behind his daughter, Amy Cotton of Los Angeles, CA and his caregiver of many years, Bill Blackden, who he considered his closest friend.