Mark David Cotton

(February 24, 1956 ~ August 23, 2024)

David, son of Alton Earl Cotton and Anita Beth Susie Harris and married to Brenda Dell Hallford.

Mark David Cotton, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and "Coach," went home to his Lord and Savior on August 23, 2024. Mark was born on February 24, 1956 to Earl and Susie Cotton in Lubbock, Texas and pursued a close relationship with Jesus from a young age.

He graduated from Jim Ned High School where he found a love for athletics. He participated in football, basketball, golf, and track. His accolades included competing in the golf state championship and being named a member of the All-State football team as an offensive lineman. While at Jim Ned, he also found another love, the love of his life, Brenda. The two were married in San Angelo, Texas on May 22, 1976.

Mark graduated from Angelo State University and began his 43 year career in education. A journey that would take him to Hamlin, Breckenridge, and ultimately Stanton, Texas. Becky, Jon, and Mallory were blessed to not only call him Coach, but Dad. A role he cherished and took on for countless students as well.

In 1994, Mark became the Athletic Director and Head Football coach in Stanton. While serving in this role, the 1997 Football Team went 16-0 and became the last unified 2A Texas State Championship team. Coach Cotton led the charge as they became a powerhouse in Texas football throughout the mid-late 90s. During this time, many honors were bestowed upon him, including being named 1997 Texas Coach of the Year by the Texas Sportswriters Association, 1997 Coach of the Year by multiple news outlets throughout Texas, Martin County Man of the Year, Super Team Coach of the Year, High School Xtra Coach of the Year, and member of the board of directors for the Texas High School Coaches Association.

In 2002, Mark became the High School principal at Stanton until he retired in 2018. You could always count on a big smile and a word of encouragement from Coach-even if that encouragement came in the form of tough love. But of all of his accomplishments, Coach considered his family his most important. His seven grandchildren were the lights of his life - Madelynne, Hadley, Nadia, Easton, Jaxson, Aaron, and Graham filled his days with joy and laughter. Most days he could be found attending their games, plays, concerts, and birthday parties. He also enjoyed traveling, golfing, fishing, and hunting.

Mark is survived by his wife of 48 years, Brenda Cotton; daughter Becky Hull and husband Brett of Stanton; son Jon Cotton and wife Amanda of Lubbock; daughter Mallory Villa and husband Emilio of Stanton; brother Tim Cotton of Junction; sisters Toni Cotton and Evelyn Bain of San Angelo; brother and sister in-law Ted and Margarett Hallford; sister-in-law Beverly Davis; brother-in-law Edward Hallford; Aunt June Koch; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 pm, Thursday, August 29, 2024 at the First Baptist Church of Stanton. The family welcomes donations to the soon to be established Coach Mark Cotton Fighting Heart Scholarship fund. Donations can be made by contacting Community National Bank in Stanton or Lubbock.