Shirley Cotten Prieto

She was born in Sanford, North Carolina to Lacy & Rosa Cotten on January 27, 1935.

In her early life, Shirley married a military man, Theodore Prieto, in 1955, and traveled to multiple countries and several states in the U.S. She eventually retired in San Diego and then moved to San Antonio.

Shirley was a big character. She loved shopping, hitting up the casino and bingo halls, and caring for her home by decorating. She was very well-traveled and was always fond of adventures.

A fearless woman, Shirley never let her age define her, by doing what most wouldn’t. She got a tattoo, took a Hot Air Balloon tour, went on 18-Wheeler and Harley motorcycle rides, and she went ziplining. Living her life to the fullest extent, Shirley conquered her bucket list after the age of 80, but that never stopped her love of a good time. At 90 years old, Shirley even tried out the iFLY indoor skydiving simulator, proving that age is just a number!

Shirley is preceded in death by her loving husband of 60 years, Theodore Prieto, her parents, two brothers and three sisters.

Shirley leaves behind to cherish her memory 7 children: Rod Prieto (Carla) of Texas: Terry Scalia of Washington; Tim Prieto (Ann) of Texas; Cathy Prieto-Smith (Darryl) of Texas; Jacquie Green (Tom) of Arkansas; Jeff Prieto (Gretchen) of Texas; and Tina Reiman (Dave) of Washington. She also leaves behind a host of loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Soaring Wings Ranch in her honor.

(https://www.soaringwingsar.org/donate)

A Committal Service will be held at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209, US, on June 10, 2026, from 10:00 am to 10:20 am.