John Martin Cottingham, of Charleston, entered his Heavenly Home on Monday, June 8, 2015 while in the comforting and loving presence of his family. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 12, 2015 at the First Baptist Church, 2800 University Drive in Charleston. Funeral Services honoring and celebrating his life will begin at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, immediately following the visitation, with Pastor Chris Prater officiating. Burial with Military Honors conducted by the Charleston VFW Paul McVey Post 1592 will follow in the Hurricane Cemetery located south of Charleston in Hutton Township.

John was born on April 18, 1922 in Hutton Township, IL, a son of the late Palmer H. and Okah Vivian (Martin) Cottingham. He married the love of his life, Elizabeth Windsor, on August 24, 1945 in North Carolina and they would have celebrated 70 years of marriage in August. In addition to his wife, he is survived by their son, Paul Cottingham and his wife Joyce of rural Charleston; and his sister, Nina Cottingham of Charleston.

John was a graduate of Eastern State High School. He honorably served his country with the United States Navy and was a World War II Veteran. For 40 years John was employed with Economy Fire and Casualty as an insurance adjuster. Following formal retirement, he re-entered the workforce in Tennessee as a driver and Director of Marketing for the Pigeon Forge Trolley System – a position he truly enjoyed for 15 years. John was a member of the Gideons International, the Pigeon Forge VFW, and the Pigeon Forge Rotary Club serving as its President and receiving the honor of being a Paul Harris Fellow. John was also a faithful member of the Charleston First Baptist Church.

With always a story or joke to share, John’s sense of humor created laughter and smiles wherever he went. He enjoyed watching sports, especially baseball, and often found himself rooting for the underdog; and yes, he was a Chicago Cubs fan! John also enjoyed sharing a meal with family and friends and dessert often included his 2 favorite kinds of pie – hot or cold. He and Elizabeth used to enjoy camping and traveling and their time spent in Pigeon Forge was memorable. John was a wonderful husband and father and a good provider for his family. There are many fond memories that will forever be treasured.
(Adams Funeral Chapel Jun/2015)