In Loving Memory of Randy Cotten

November 26, 1949 - July 16, 2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Randy Cotten, who went to be with the Lord on July 16, 2026, at the age of 76. Born on November 26, 1949, in Ferriday, Louisiana, Randy lived a life built on love, hard work, loyalty, and service to others.

Graveside services with Military Honors will be held at the Mars Hill Cemetery, near Verda, LA, at 12:15 PM with Rev. Churck LaCroix officiating, under the direction of Southern Funeral Home of Winnfield.

Shelby Cotten, Keith Carter, Tyler Cotten, Tanner Carter, Brandon Rush and Landon Davis will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Braxton Thompson, Kenny Carter, Jr., David Cotten, and Billy Carter.

Friends and family are invited to attend a reception to follow at Union Hill Baptist Church, near Montgomery, LA, to share food and memories of Randy.

Randy was preceded in death by his grandparents, Joe and Myrtle McManus; his parents, M.C. Cotten and Geneva Wyrick (Bud Wyrick); and his beloved daughter, Amanda Cotten.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Karen Cotten; his sons, Keith Carter (Brandie Miller) and Shelby Cotten (Laverne Chaline). He was a proud grandfather to Faith Thompson (Annie Gomez), Tyler Cotten (Megan Cotten), Sebastian Patten, Landon Davis, and Tanner Carter. He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren, Braxton, Junior, and Kai, who brought him endless joy and pride.

A proud United States Marine, Randy served his country as a Corporal in the United States Marine Corps from April 24, 1967, through March 22, 1973. His dedication to serving others continued throughout his life. He worked for Rowan Drilling earlier in his career and later became a skilled carpenter. Randy was truly a jack of all trades. There was never a job too big, a problem too difficult, or a person in need that he wouldn't try to help.

Randy found some of his greatest happiness outdoors, especially deer and hog hunting with his sons and grandchildren. He treasured every opportunity to spend time with his family and created memories that will be cherished for generations.

To his family, Randy was more than a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather - he was a protector, a teacher, and the steady hand they could always count on. His greatest gift was the love he gave so freely. The memories made around campfires, in the woods, working side by side, and simply spending time together will be treasured forever.

For those blessed to call him Dad, he wasn't just someone who taught lessons with words; he taught through the way he lived - by working hard, keeping his word, helping others, and loving his family with everything he had. He showed what it meant to be there when it mattered most and left behind an example that will continue to guide his family for generations.

To know Randy was to know a friend. He never met a stranger and was loved by all who had the privilege of crossing his path. His kindness, work ethic, humor, and willingness to lend a hand left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

Randy's greatest legacy is the love he gave to his family and the example he set through the way he lived his life. Although he will be deeply missed, his memory will live on forever in the hearts of his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who knew and loved him.

Rest easy, Randy. Your work here is done, but the love you gave will never be forgotten.