James Donald Cotten

James Donald Cotten, 84 of Richmond, Utah passed away Friday, November 28, 2003. ?Cotten? was born August 6, 1919 at Plaines, Yoakum County, Texas, the son of Arthur Cotten and Annie Leslie Poland. He was the youngest of 12 children. He was reared on a cattle ranch and they also raised angora goats. He had many stories to tell about his herding goats on the cold windy plains of west Texas.
Donald was a lifelong member of the Freewill Baptist Church. He was an ordained Deacon of that church. He served many leadership roles, but the one he enjoyed best was Chorister. He loved music. It was an integral part of his life.
He married Sleetie Estell Pruett on October 6, 1938 in Brownsfield, Texas. They moved to California in 1947 and he spent the rest of his working years as a successful drycleaner at Keep-U-Neat Cleaners in Antioch, California. Donald?s most important hobby was taking care of his ?honey? Sleetie. They enjoyed playing Bocce Ball and had many championship trophies. She passed away on August 26, 1999.
He is survived by his three daughters, Dona Spohn Richard of Richmond, Utah; Vickie Stevens John of Brentwood, California and Candace Cotten of Silver City, New Mexico; 10 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren; 2 sisters, Ruth Fillingim of Hico, Texas and Dell Bible of Grapevine, Texas and many nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to thank Vista Care Hospice, especially Maria Davis, Peggy Wolfley and Gib Hull, who rendered such loving compassionate care during the last few weeks of his life; Heritage Home Care and Sunshine Terrace. Also Dr. Robert Nash and his staff during his illness here in Utah. We also wish to thank Nelson Funeral Home for their services.
Funeral arrangements will be taken care of by the Freewill Baptist Church with Bro. Bob Cantrell a lifelong friend officiating along with the direction of Higgins Funeral Home in Antioch, California.