Ralph O'Neal Cotton

Ralph O’Neal Cotton passed away peacefully into his heavenly home on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at Bethany House after battling pancreatic cancer.

Ralph was born February 1, 1946 to Tela and Clara Ward Cotton.  Ralph is survived by his best friend and devoted wife of 49 years, Jane Champion Cotton, and his bonus children, Terry (Jan) Crocker, Jr., Andy Crocker, granddaughter, Hannah Crocker (Zack) Hammond. He’s also survived by his sister in law, Doris Cotton, nieces – Kandi Cotton (Tommy) Tatum, Telatha Cotton (Jim) Traywick and Kellie Cotton, and numerous grand nieces and nephews. Survived by his aunt Nelleen Ward, special cousin Barbara Gail Ward, Eddie Ward, Dwayne Ward, James Ward, Teresa Ward, and by his many special Brothers and Sisters in Christ.

Ralph is predeceased by his parents, his precious sister, Jane Cotton Fuller, brother, Gene Cotton, in laws A.B. and Estelle Champion, nephews Bubba Cotton and George (Butch) Ioannides.

Ralph attended Pepperell School, Opelika High and received a BA degree from Auburn University in Secondary Art Education.  He taught at Ridgecrest Christian School for several years, then became the art teacher at Scott Prep until they merged with Lee Academy.  After Scott Prep, he started working at East Alabama Medical Center in the graphics department where he worked for 40 years.  Ralph was also the pastor of Father’s House Christian Fellowship Church for over 25 years.  One of the many joys of his life was sharing and teaching the Good News about his Savior, Jesus Christ.

Ralph was a talented artist and musician. He was a beacon of joy, known for his infectious laugh.  His huge sense of humor and ability to bring laugher into any situation was a testimony of his joyous spirit.  He had a giving heart and loved being with friends and meeting people.  He had a gift for making people feel loved and appreciated.

While we mourn his death, we also celebrate his remarkable life and profound impact on all who knew him.  His legacy of love, laughter, service and faith in Jesus Christ will forever be cherished and remembered by all who knew him.

The family acknowledges with sincere appreciation the staff of Bethany House and Spencer Cancer Center for their wonderful care of Ralph.  Also, thanks to Dr. Kevin Jackson, for his many years of taking good care of Ralph as his primary care physician. They also want to thank their many friends for their comforting messages, love and prayers as Ralph and Jane went through this journey – a journey that Ralph traveled with such grace and dignity.

The family ask that instead of flowers, please contribute a donation to Father House Christian Fellowship (214 Morris Ave, Opelika), St. Jude Children’s Hospital or your favorite charity in Ralph’s name.