James Clark Cotten

Funeral service celebrating the life of James Clark Cotten of West Monroe, LA. will be 11:00 AM, Friday, July 10, 2026 in the chapel of Heaven Bound Funeral Home, 703 North 4th St. West Monroe LA. (beside the First West Thrift Store)

Interment will follow at the Northeast LA Veterans Cemetery, Rayville LA. under the care of Heaven Bound Funeral Home.

Family will receive friends for visitation 10:00 AM until time of service at the funeral home.

James Clark Cotten, 79, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and memories that will forever be treasured by those who knew him.

Born on August 26, 1946, James proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1965 to 1969, including service during the Vietnam War. His military service reflected the quiet strength, dedication, and patriotism that remained with him throughout his life.

On January 16, 1967, James married the love of his life, Frances Irene Cotten. Together they shared 59 wonderful years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, family, and an unwavering love for one another. Later in life, James and Frances traveled the country together as truck drivers, making memories across countless miles. He loved telling stories from the road, often leaving everyone around him laughing with his quick wit and unforgettable sense of humor.

James found joy in life’s simple pleasures. It was rare to see him without a cup of coffee in his hand. He loved to sing, play his guitar, and spend time with the people he loved most. Whether he was sharing stories on the front porch, making someone laugh with one of his jokes, or simply enjoying time with his family, James had a way of making every moment feel special. More than anything, he loved his family, and the memories he created with them will be cherished for generations to come.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Frances Irene Cotten; his children, Billie Joyce Tipton-Juneau and husband, DJ, and James Clark Cotten Jr. and wife, Carla; his siblings, Raymond E. Cotten and wife, Marie, David Ann Brevetti and husband, Mike, Jeri Veal, and Wanda Foley and husband, Ray.

He was a proud grandfather to Angeline Roberts and husband, Joshua; Brittany Tipton and fiancé, Alan Fortin; Casey Tipton; Justin Cotten; and Jonathan Cotten and wife, Emilee. He was also blessed with thirteen great-grandchildren: Karissa, Branson James, Aiden, Aubrey, Madison, Lexi, Sunny, Austin, Maverick, Bryce, Brylee, Braelynn, and Paxton, and one treasured great-great-granddaughter, Aura.

James is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Preston Cotten and Mozell Loraine Blackledge; his stepfather, David D. Blackledge; his mother-in-law, Ethel M. Brekeen; his father-in-law, Roy L. Clark; his siblings, Jerry Cotten, John Cotten, Margaret Elmore, and Donna Lynn Walker; his son-in-law, Maurice T. Tipton; and his beloved great-grandson, Jackson Cotten.

James’s legacy is one of love, service, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his family. His life was defined not only by the years he lived but by the kindness he showed, the stories he shared, the songs he sang, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

2 Corinthians 5:8

“Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord.”