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Derrick Cothran Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Derrick Cothran
Renee m greenlaw
September 27, 2024
This family took me and my oldest daughter in like family when I was 19 and they cared for her and for me till I moved away at 22 , these kids will always be kids in my mind and I loved them and appreciated their place in my life, i domt know where u guys are now , but derrick was amazing and I'll never forget the time i was blessed to be counted as a part of yalls family, times have changed i suppose
Meagan Wagner
July 1, 2014
I wear Derrick's name on my wrist every single day. I never got to meet this brave man, but whenever someone asks about the silver bracelet, I can help remind them of the sacrifice that he, and so many others, made for all of us. My heart breaks for his family and friends for losing such a special person. Thank you, Derrick.
Pedro David Lanza
December 2, 2013
We still miss you.
Thank you for your service.
Semper Fidelis.
GOD Bless you.
I served with Cothram with 2nd Tank Batalion. I love this guy and I have great memories.
April Lee
May 27, 2013
You've grown to be such a respectable man, You are my hero and I will never forget you! I miss you.
Natalie Rodriguez
October 9, 2012
He will never be forgotten
October 7, 2012
In memory of Derrick Cothran.
Peggy Childers
April 15, 2012
To the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Derrick J. Cothran:
Please accept my remembrance of Derrick on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
April 15, 2011
To the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Derrick J. Cothran:
Remembering Derrick on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
L Neal
April 7, 2011
To the family of Lance Cpl. Derrick J. Cothran:
Please know that just as your loved one remains in your hearts and minds; his sacrifice, and that of your family, remains with the people he died defending. Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for his bravery and selflessness, or the heartache we feel for your loss. God bless and keep you always.
David Dunn
January 11, 2010
Always thinking about you Baby Hulk!! Trying to live up to your standards.
JOHN SHEHAN
September 21, 2009
To Derrick
Ever since meeting Victoria and finding out about you. Ive read everything I can find about you. You seem like you would have been the kind of guy I would be friends with. To be honest when I first read about what had happened I got a little teary eyed. Its sad to read about a fellow Marine dying. Especially a stellar one like yourself. You did your duty and gave the most precious thing you could for your country. You were so young and had a whole lot more life to live. But like Billy Joel sang "Only the Good Die Young". And you did it with Honor bro. Semper Fi and Numquam Oblitus.
Kenna Larra
April 20, 2009
”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,450 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna
Natalie Rodriguez
April 20, 2009
You will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
April 15, 2009
To the family of Lance Cpl. Derrick J. Cothran:
Derrick gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Victoria Cothran
February 3, 2009
Life's just not the same without you baby.
There's not a day that goes by that I don't think of the love of my life.
I love you and miss you, papi.
I always will.
TJ COTHRAN
December 2, 2008
MY LITTLE BROTHER: IT HAS BEEN TWO YEARS AND 8 MONTHS SINCE I LOST YOU. AND AFTER ALL THIS TIME I DID NOT KNOW WHAT TO SAY. ITS BEEN HARD TO GO ON WITHOUT YOU. I JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT I MISS YOU AND I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU. IT WAS A BLESSING TO GROW UP WITH YOU AND I COULD NOT ASK FOR A BETTER FRIEND, BROTHER OR WORKOUT PARTNER. I WISH YOU COULD BE HERE TO SEE MY KIDS GROW UP. I KNOW YOU WILL WATCH OVER MY FAMILY AS I CONTINUE THE MISSION IN IRAQ. LOVE, YOUR BIG BRO, CPL.COTHRAN T.M. USMC/0331
May 28, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Lance Cpl Cothran!
In Memory of Derrick ( Debra Estep )
April 15, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers today.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
Please contact me and I will email you back a copy of an
Angel and soldier drawing.
I did not know Derrick, but I am remembering on
this day he gave his all.
He is my hero.
Sincerely,
Debra Estep
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
The Other Side
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Josh O'Neal
December 24, 2007
I played college football with D-COT at union. Something that sticks in my mind that i will never forget is the last game of the season our freshman year. We were playin the number 3 team in the country and it was a horrible game. It was raining, the field was muddy, not to mention it was about 20 degrees. The game went into overtime tied 3-3. Campbellsville lined up to kick a field goal and d-cot comes flying around the end, lays out and blocks the field goal. The best part was he then sprinted across the field to around the fifty yard line, slid on his stomach, rolled over and started makin a "mud angel" in campbellsvilles' house. The game ended with both benches clearing and in a brawl that is still talked about in good ole barbourville, KY. RIP D-COT
I KNOW THAT ALL OF US MISS YOU CUZ * TELL GRANDMA I LOVE HER TOO** MUAH!! DIANA VILIN
Diana Calix
August 21, 2007
I miss you & Grandma everyday** I love ya'll
August 6, 2007
I don't pretend to know what to say or do that would bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.
Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.
I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON (KIA on 07/06/07) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.
REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
July 26, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Lance Cpl Cothran and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
Aunt of a Lance Cpl deploying soon
Barbara Tisdale
June 14, 2007
Dear Cothran family,
Please accept my deepest and sincerest sympathy. May God continue to bless you and keep you close. Peace be with you.
Garnet Jenkins
April 15, 2007
Please know how Deeply Sorry I was to learn of the loss of Lance Cpl. Derrick J. Cothran, one year ago.
The price this Brave Young Marine and his family have paid for this country and for freedom, Will Never Be Forgotten.
May Derrick rest safely in the Loving Care of God and know that he is a True American Hero that will Never Be Forgotten. May the Grace and Comfort of the Lord continue to be with the Cothran family.
There will Never be Enough Ways to Humbly Thank these Young Heroes for their Sacrifices, my brother among them. Killed in action in Vietnam in 1967.
"Cast thy burden upon the Lord,
and He shall sustain thee."
~ Psalm 55:22 ~
May the Peace of God and your memories of Derrick, remain in your heart always.
May this give you comfort and strength through the difficult days. Hope is not only the light we carry within, it is also what often carries us through...
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
DAVID DUNN
November 10, 2006
TO THE FRIENDS AND FAMILY OF DERRICK,
ON THIS BIRTHDAY OF MARINES MY FAMILY WILL SAY MANY PRAYERS FOR YOURS. WE WILL SAY PRAYERS FOR ALL OF THOSE WHO HAVE PAID MORE THAN OUR FAIR SHARE OF SACRIFICE IN DEFENSE OF THIS COUNTRY. I DONT BELIEVE A SINGLE DAY HAS PASSED WITHOUT A THOUGHT OF DERRICK. I SPOKE WITH VICTORIA YESTERDAY AND SHE NEARLY BROUGHT ME TO TEARS I WISH THERE WAS A WAY I COULD HAVE REACHED THROUGH THE PHONE AND HUGGED HER. I HAVE MANAGED TO CAPTURE HIS SMILE IN MY MIND FOREVER, AND IT HELPS PASS MY SAD THOUGHTS. AND THEN I REMEMBER TED TELLING ME WERE ONLY SAD BECAUSE WE WON'T HAVE ANY MORE TIME WITH HIM. IT'S JUST OUR SELFISHNESS MAKING US FEEL THAT WAY. BECAUSE HE'S IN A MUCH GREATER PLACE THAN WE KNOW AND THATS THE HANDS OF OUR LORD.
I FEEL BLESSED TO HAVE SHARED IN SUCH A STRONG FAMILYS SORROW. THAT MAY SOUND DISENCHANTING TO SOME AND IGNORANT TO OTHERS. BUT, THIS FAMILY THAT RAISED AND NURTURED DERRICK TAUGHT ME A NEW ASPECT ON LIFE AND GIVING EVERYTHING FOR WHAT YOU BELIEVE. IT'S NO WONDER THAT DERRICK WAS SUCH A TREMENDOUS PERSON EVERYONE IN HIS FAMILY IS THE EXACT SAME WAY. DERRICK WILL CONTINUE TO BE AN INSPIRATION IN MY LIFE. THANK YOU TED FOR WHAT YOU TOLD ME.
ALL MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
SSGT. DAVID E DUNN
Stephanie Barfield
October 30, 2006
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
May God Bless your family during this time. I Lost my brother 9/1/05
in Iraq (Ssgt. George R. Drauhn Jr.) I promise the days will get easier!
Debby Savell
August 22, 2006
It is hard to accept that so many young men and women have died in our war on terrorism, but to learn that Derrick was one of them saddened our family deeply. We knew Derrick as a child and he was an awesome young man. We never met his wife Victoria but she must be an incredible woman to have captured his heart. Elana, Ted, TJ and Antionette our thoughts and prayers are with you. I remember talking to Elana at Home Depot for a short while you know just old friends catching up and how proud she was of him. I was too for he was doing something special, following his heart doing what is right and standing up for what he believed in. We lost an great gentleman, but heaven has gain an Angel. God Bless you guys
Robert Dunning
August 18, 2006
To the Cothran family-
My name is GySgt Dunning. I was LCpl Cothran's Senior Drill Instructor. My heart truly goes out to you and your family. I was deeply saddened by the news of LCpl Cothran's untimely death. I read all of the paper clippings that I could find and found myself in disbelief of the news. I can remember the 1st day of pick-up, and as I think of that day LCpl Cothran was the first recruits that I remembered to this day. His presence made him stand out among the other recruits. I instantly choose him as a Squad Leader; which was a position that he held all the way throughout boot camp; which is something that is rarely done. As I read many of the entries and as it was said before, I too see that his character carried on with him into the fleet. You are in my prayers and I know that he will always be remembered and will continue to be in all of our hearts. God Bless.
Kristin Hardy
July 7, 2006
Hi. I just wanted to let you know I'm still thinking about you and keeping you in my prayers. I always imagine Derrick and Brandon walking around Heaven together and it makes me smile..Heaven sure beats bootcamp!! Take care.
Claire Zawistowski
May 12, 2006
Dear Cothran Family,
Even though we have never met I feel as if we are a part of a "family". My daughter's fiancee was killed in Irag on Oct. 3, 2005. It is my prayer that you will feel God holding you as close to His heart as He has held my family these past months. You will be in our prayers as you walk through these difficult days.
SDI SSgt Robert B. Cross Sr.
May 12, 2006
The Cothran Family,
I wanted to start of by saying my prayers are with you in your time of sorrow.
I was one of the Drill Instructors that trained Lcpl Cothran from platoon 1044. The 70 training days that I spent with him were a pleasure. When he left Parris Island as a United States Marine, there was no doubt in my mind that he would go on to great things. And he did. Lcpl Cothran was a natural born leader, he never waited for someone else to do something. He was always the one willing to do it whether it was an easy task or difficult he was always up to the challenge and he never failed when it came to a challenge. He was my go to man in the platoon. He truley made my job as a Drill Instructor easier. I was sad on graduation day to see him leave. The kind of feeling when a child moves out of the house, your sad to see them go, however your happy because you know that they will go on to do great things. And I felt lucky to be the one that trained him.
I want everyone to know that he even know I only knew him for 70 training days. I can tell you this. He was a remarkable young man, Marine, husband and a friend and I will never forget him.
And in closing even know that Lcpl Cothran gave his life, he did it honerably defending our country. And the reason we have the freedoms that we do, its because of men like him. And I am proud to say that I trained him to be a United States Marine.
SDI SSgt Robert B. Cross Sr.
Jeffrey Clay
May 12, 2006
To the Cothran family-
My name is SSgt Clay. I was LCpl Cothran's Drill Instructor. My heart goes out to you and your family. LCpl Cothran stood out amoungst all those that I have had the pleasure in training. He was hard working and gave well over a hundred percent. I read over some of the guest book entries and I see that his character carried on with him into the fleet. I wanted to let you all know that you are in my prayers and he will always be remembered and hold a place in the hearts of his family and those he served with. God Bless.
Semper Fi
SSgt Clay
Parris Island, SC
Phillip Martell
May 12, 2006
Mr. and Mrs. Cothran.
I met you on the day that you son and I graduated from bootcamp. As you know, nothing I can say will ever ease the pain that you are feeling right now. I stood next to Lcpl. Cothran for three months, as one of the other squad leaders of Platoon 1044. As it is a great lose to you, his brothers here are feeling the same pain that you are. I just want to tell you that I am truly sorry for your lose. Derrick was a stellar Marine in every aspect. He and I often shared stories of home as we trained side by side for 71 days. once again I just want to tell you that I am sorry. If at all possible could I have you address, I have some pictures I would like to mail you. [email protected]
Thank You.
Lcpl. Phillip J. Martell
J.T. JONES
May 12, 2006
TO THE COTHRAN FAMILY
I JUST RECENTLY FOUND OUT WHAT HAD HAPPENED TO DERRICK AND WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW HE IS DEEPLY MISSED BY ALL THE FRIENDS AND FELLOW MARINES HE IMPACTED WHILE KNOWING HIM. DERRICK WAS MY SQUAD LEADER AT BOOT CAMP AND GOOD FRIEND AT THE SCHOOL OF INFANTRY AT CAMP GEIGER. EVEN THOUGH I HAD NOT SEEN HIM IN RECENT MONTHS I ALWAYS CONSIDERED HIM A FRIEND AND SOMEONE I KNOW COULD ALWAYS MAKE ME LAUGH. I WILL BE PRAYING FOR YOU GUYS AND ALL HIS LOVED ONES. I APPRECIATE EVERYTHING HE HAS DONE FOR COUNTRY AND LOVED HIM AS A PERSON. GOD BLESS!
PFC J.T. JONES
1/8 ALPHA COMPANY 2ND PLATOON
Sam DiGrazio
May 10, 2006
Mr. and Mrs. Cothran,
We have never met. My name is Samantha DiGrazio. I am Cpl. Brandon Hardy's fiance. I have heard so much about your son from the Hardys' and I just wanted to let you know that I am praying for you. There are no words that can describe the feeling of losing someone that we love so much.
Victoria- You are also in my thoughts and prayers. If you need someone to talk to my email address in [email protected]. The only comfort I can offer, if there is any, is that when we see our men again in heaven, as my aunt said, there will be no more goodbyes. God Bless Our Troops.
AMANDA RABITO CALLAIS
May 9, 2006
AMANDA RABITO CALLAIS AND FAMLILY FROM SOFTBALL IN AVONDALE
Jesse & Julie Vasquez
May 8, 2006
Ted and Elena, please accept our heartfelt condolences on the loss of your son. Nothing anyone can say or do can replace him but hopefully you can find comfort in knowing that as he decided to live his life proctecting his family and country, now too will he be your protector and comforter for the rest of your days. We have you in our hearts and in our prayers.
Kristin Hardy
May 7, 2006
Dear Cothran family,
I met you at Derrick's graduation from Parris Island in June of 2005. My brother Brandon M. Hardy was friends with Derrick. I am sorry to hear about Derrick's passing. My brother, Cpl. Brandon Hardy, was also killed in Al Anbar, Iraq on April 28th. I just wanted to let you know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you and thank you for what your son has done for our country.
"If the Army and the Navy ever look to Heaven's scenes, they will find the streets are guarded by UNITED STATES MARINES." Remember, if you and those that you love trust Jesus Christ as your savior, you'll spend eternity in Heaven and you'll never have to say goodbye...
Fallen Heroes
Warren & Jill Hardy
May 7, 2006
Mr. & Mrs. Cothran,
We met you at Derrick's boot camp graduation. We are the parents of Brandon Hardy. Our hearts are aching with yours today. We just found this page while we were searching for Brandon's memorial service. Brandon was killed in action on 4/28/06 in Al Anbar province. Our boys are together again. There are no words to say what we know you are also feeling. We will try to contact you personally.
Our prayers are with you and your family.
Warren & Jill Hardy
Aracely Boquin-Molay
May 4, 2006
Amazingly enough I never had the pleasure of meeting this brave Marine or his wife. However, I was lucky enough to grow up in the neighborhood with the Martinez family & I have gotten to know the Cannet family within the past few years........Victoria, may you find the strength you need in God and in your parents during this most difficult time. God bless all of you who are mourning.
Christopher & Anne Hooter
May 3, 2006
By Gods grace we are healed.
The Martinez and the Cothrans' family are ones founded on the love of Christ. Their strong foundation in Jesus has not waivered. Derrick, I believe didn't just die a hero for our country, His belief in God and fighting for our freedom to serve him has placed him as a martyr for Christ.
Ted, Helen, Antoinette, and T.J. my prayers are for your family. Stay strong God is by your side. Stay viligent for God will see you through. Praise God for all things. Your son and your brother died for our religious freedom. He is sitting in a special place now, he died a martyr and he is sitting in the awesome presence of our Lord.
T.J. Our prayers are with you. God bless all our service men.
The Martinez's are a strong family. The Cothran's family is a very tight one. They are true examples of how a family should be.
Victoria, my prayers are with you. I pray that you will get peace. Stay faithful to God. He will see you through.
Diane Spencer
May 2, 2006
From out family to yours, Antoinette, please accept our heartfelt condolences and prayers. He is with the Lord and is in loving arms. He was much too young to be taken from you, but please know that we are proud of what he has done for our country and has given the ultimate sacrifice that any one person can give. My daughter, Betty, grew up and played softball with Antoinette, so we knew her brothers also because we all lived in Avondale and were always at the park. I remember Derrick as a sweet and loving young boy and was always ready to help. I will place your family on our prayer list at our church in Avondale.
Pat Canfall
May 1, 2006
My condolences to the Cothran family. Derrick may you rest in peace. Thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom. You have earned your golden halo and wings. May you continue to soar in the heavenly clouds up above.
Darla Davis
April 29, 2006
What a Brave Brave Young Man. A HERO to us All, whether we knew him or not. May you REST IN PEACE, and May your Family find PEACE & COMFORT in the days to come. Thank you for so proudly serving our country.
eleanor daigle
April 29, 2006
MY HEART AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO THIS YOUNG MAN'S WIFE AND FAMILY, MY FATHER WAS A MARINE IN WORLD WAR11 AND MY OLDER BROTHER WAS A MARINE ALSO MY YOUNGER brother and nephew were marines serving in the viet nam war, they both made it home alive,but we were so worried for them.
Joe and Becki Basley
April 28, 2006
To the Cothran family,
Althought we did not personally know him, my family wanted to extend our sympathy to your family. We honor his memory and his sacrifice he made for his country.
Edna, V.R. Jr., & Vernon,Sr. The Russell Family
April 28, 2006
Antoinette, Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family. We had the opportunity to meet Derrick when my son, Vernon Russell, Jr. and Derrick attended John Curtis Christian School. They played on the football team together. He was quite a sweet and mannerable young man. The loss of a loved one is so devasting. Please know that others share in your grief. Edna, Vernon, Jr. and Vernon Russell, Sr.
Ed Hannan
April 28, 2006
As the father of 2 Marines please accept my condolences on your loss. Our country is safe because of the sacrifices of our young men like your brave son and I thank you for his contribution to our Freedom.
Michael & Peaches Hebert
April 28, 2006
Derrick, while “Walking through the Valley of Death You Feared No Evil” as you were performing accomplishments in your life that you believed in, you had to make the ultimate sacrifice in an effort to provide safety and freedom for the Family, Friends, & Country you loved. We will be forever indebted to you and your loved ones for your thoughtfulness of others. As we continue our journey in this lifetime, we will cherish and remember those moments we had the opportunity to spend time with you, and share these joyful memories with others in conversation and prayers, so that we will be able to celebrate these joyful moments with you when we meet again.
"No greater love hath any man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friend"
John 15:13
Michael & Peaches
April 28, 2006
bernadette shine
April 27, 2006
As a resident of louisiana I would like to offer my sincere sympathy for your tremendous loss of an obviously strong and selfless person.Your loss is certainly heaven`s gain.Find comfort in knowing Derrick is done with the troubles and suffering of this world and is now rejoicing in his reward for his sacrifice.As he continues to watch over and protect you he continues to do the things that angels are supposed to do he's now doing it in a better place.Thank you and may God forever bless you.
April 27, 2006
Dear Lord
Please wrap your loving arms around this family in this time of need. Comfort them, heal their broken hearts. Help them to remember all the wonderful times with Derrick, and let them know that yet another Marine is guarding heavens gates. In Jesus name I pray.....Amen.
April 27, 2006
From one Marine family to another.....God Bless You and you are all in our prayers.
Angela Burgett
April 27, 2006
Having just left the funeral for Lance Corporal Ryan Winslow, it is with great sadness that I give my condolences. These young men were true heroes who can never be replaced. We weep for your loss, we pray for your family, and we wish you peace from God.
Heather Vicknair
April 27, 2006
to the cothran family,
i grew up with derrick and i loved like i would one of my own siblings. i remember playing ball with him at the back gym. i went on my first date with him. he was a special person and he will be missed greatly. he touched everyone he met in a special way and will never be forgotten. my sympathies go out to his family. i love you guys.
Jennifer Lousteau, Formally Escherre
April 27, 2006
To the Cothran family,
I send out my deepest sympathy. I will keep you all in my prayers to help you get through this tough time. Although he is gone, he will never be forgotten.
April 27, 2006
Dear Lord we pray that you keep this family safe through out the days ahead.
Tina Vicknair
April 27, 2006
To the Cothran Family,
Our deepest sympathy is with your family.We will miss Derrick very much. He was a very special person and he grew up to be such a fine young man. I am so proud of him. We will all miss very much.
Our deepest Love is with yall and him forever.
Love Always the Vicknair Family
Tina Vicknair
April 27, 2006
To the Cothran Family,
Our deepest sympathy is with your family.We will miss Derrick very much. He was a very special person and he grew up to be such a fine young man. I am so proud of him. We will all miss very much.
Our deepest Love is with your family and him forever.
Love Always the Vicknair Family
David Ehrmann
April 26, 2006
To the Cothran Family,
Our deepest sympanthy goes out to you. Derrick was a good man, husband, and Marine. He will truly be missed.
To Derrick,
From one Marine to another, I thank you helping secure the freedoms we enjoy in this country. It takes someone with honor, courage, and commitment to do what you have done. I know your standing guard at heaven’s gates. Semper Fi brother.
The Ehrmann Family.
Dawn Stute
April 26, 2006
Victoria: I believe that GOD has a plan for us all as we come into this world. Obviously you were Derricks Angel and he was yours. You guided each other along life and learned many lessons together. Now that he has been CALLED upon, I have faith that you know where to go from here once the pain of Derricks loss lessens a little. You will move forward in your life and carry the love, sharing, lessons, and so many other things that you and Derrick learned and taught each other along the way. Your time together was beautiful and even though you may not have had much time together as husband and wife, your love was enough to fill a lifetime. You were both so lucky to have the time you did have. Some people never find their soulmate. Luckily you found yours early and lived a life of love together. He will ALWAYS guide you in a different way now, just follow your intuitions now and use all of this to move on to make him proud of the life you began together. I am so proud of you and Derrick. I am proud to have such a man like he was representing our country and values, as well as I am proud of you for handling this like the wonderful woman you have blossomed into. You are both in my prayers.
Monica Fabacher
April 26, 2006
To The Cothran Family and Derrick,
Derrick, I will never forget that bright smile and the love of a great athlete. You are a true hero, and I hope you wear your wings proudly and may God's love be with you always.
To the Cothran Family,
My deepest sympathy for your loss. It takes a great person to join the marines and Derrick was that person. He will be sadly missed and may God's eternal light always shine on him. I am proud to say I knew him and what a great young man he was and what a great family raised him.
We Love Ya'll,
The Donald Fabacher Family
Stephanie Rodrigue
April 26, 2006
To Derrick's family and friends: my greatest sympathies. Know that your loved ones are here for you and praying for you. He is watching over you now.
Elizabeth Egal
April 26, 2006
To the family and beautiful wife of Derrick J. Cothran. I had the pleasure of meeting Lcpl. Cothran at the Marine Corps Ball in Wilmington, N.C. in November. Although I only spent one night in his presence, his charm and smile were heart-warming. Similarly, his wonderful wife was friendly and loving. His smile in the pictures of I have of the scout platoon is one that could brighten up a cloudy day. He is a brave, young hero, and I will never forget his courage. "All gave some, Some gave all" Rest In Peace, Lcpl. Cothran. You will forever be in my thoughts and prayers. Semper Fi, Marine.
IRIS ROBERTSON
April 25, 2006
Although I did not personally know him, I would just like to say, "Thank You" to Derrick Cothran for serving and protecting our country and making me feel safe!
Melissa Dronet
April 25, 2006
Victoria, I am so sorry for your loss. My heart truly hurts when I think of the pain you feel. I loss my boyfriend Larry, of 6 years on December 16, 2005. The pain that comes with a loss like this feels so unbearable. I have found prayer to be the only thing to get me through each day. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Please feel free to call me if you need to talk. It really helps to be able to talk with people who can somewhat understand what you're going through. I also would like to send my deepest sympathy to the Cothran family. May God Bless you through your grief of such a tremendous loss. You should be proud to have such a wonderful, honorable man as your son, and brother. Once again, I am truely sorry for your loss. God Bless all of you. You are all in my prayers!
Love, Melissa
Elizabeth Rowan
April 25, 2006
Just to send my condolence to the family. I am the mother of a Marine also and we're from Avondale.My son came back from Iraq last month. You had a son you could hold your head up proud gone but not forgotten. Semper Fidelis
Carol Blache
April 25, 2006
To all of the family of Derrick Cothran, who is a hero to many like me. We have never met but are as one as my son is in Iraq at this time on his third tour of duty. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to all of you. May his love and dedication be with you always.
Sharon Rodriguez
April 25, 2006
To the Cothran Family:
Please know that our prayers are with all of you. I'll always remember Derrick as "sweet little Derrick". Elena and Ted, I hope you can find comfort in knowing that your precious Derrick was a wonderful and sweet young man and much of this comes from the way he was raised, in a close loving family. I remember from the ball park days that if we saw one of you, the others were sure to be close by. Derrick was blessed to grow up with wonderful parents, sister, and brother and then of course to find Victoria who he obviously loved and was loved by in return. We all feel that he was taken way too soon but we do know that he had a good fulfilling life. God needs another angel in heaven so that will be Derricks new role, and he will be watching over all of you. May God bless and keep you all.
The Rodriguez Family (Sharon, Jerry, Natalie, Jerry Jr, and DeNeil)
Carolyn Wood
April 25, 2006
I am a friend of Victoria, Derrick's wife, I was there when she first met Derrick and they fell inlove. I had the privilege of being able to meet Derrick, he was such a funny guy and very sweet! My prayers go out to the Cothran/Cannet family! I know Derrick is up in heaven having a great time in the presence of God!
Rick Smythe
April 25, 2006
SAEPE EXPERTUS - SEMPER FIDELIS - BRATRES AETERNI..simply translated, Often tested, always faithful & Brothers forever. I was informed of this young Marine's recent falling. My deepest condolences to you Victoria and the entire family. These are troubled times. So many do not understand what it takes to keep the freedoms we have. I'm a Marine combat veteran of Vietnam, and will leave you with this - "FOR THOSE WHO HAVE FOUGHT FOR IT, PEACE HAS THE MEANING THE PROTECTED WILL NEVER KNOW." I'm certain that LCpl Cothran will be one of the Marines that guard the streets of Heaven. Semper Fi
Stacy Brack
April 25, 2006
Victoria, I wish there was something I could say to make you feel better. Although the time you had together was short, it was the happiest time of Derrick's life. The look in his eyes when he spoke of you said it all. I've never seen a man so in love and I am sure that his loved ones are relieved that you made him so full of joy and happiness. No matter how much time we have with our family and friends, it is never enough. We can only hope and pray that while we are here, we are content. There is no guessing about Derrick's happiness...and it came from you, the love of his life, and the United States Marines. It was a pleasure knowing somebody like Derrick and I hope we can all take a piece of him into our hearts and let him live forever through us all.
Denise Hampton
April 25, 2006
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Trudy Ocmand
April 25, 2006
To Derrick's family,
I am truly sorry for your loss.
Although I have not known your family for a long time, I feel privileged to have you as my new friends.In the short time I have spent with you, have already touched my heart deeply. It is such an honor to have you as my friends. You are in my thoughts & prayers.May GOD keep & comfort you in your time of need.
Love,Trudy Ocmand
April 25, 2006
Lance Corporal Cothran thanks for serving your country. My sympathy to the family.
Antonio High
April 24, 2006
To the family and wife of Derrick Cothran:
Me and Derrick were roommates during our first semester of College (Union College, Ky), and we became great friends. I had the honor to play football and hang out with Derrick. Derrick was a very inspirational person in my life on and off the field. My heart goes out to his lovely family and his wonderful wife. God bless you all and I will continue to keep you all in my prayers.
Bruce @ Valerie Carr
April 24, 2006
April 24,2006
To the Family of Lance Cpl. Derrick Cothran:
We are very soory for your loss. We had the please of meeting Derrick in 2003 at Union College. Derrick and my son Antonio High were roommates. Derrick came home with Antonio to visit. He was a joy to have around. He was kind and very humble young man. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. May today there be peace within you, knowing that Derrick is Heaven bound.
Bruce & Valerie Carr(McDonough Ga.)
[email protected]
Jennifer Victoriano
April 24, 2006
May you find peace among the memories
Monica Johnson & Family
April 24, 2006
To the Parents, Wife, Family & Friends of Lance Cpl. Derrick Cothran.
I had the pleasure of meeting Derrick and spending a little time with him while he was at Union College. Derrick was roommates with my nephew (Antonio High). During visits Derrick was always a joy, he was very kind, humble and the perfect gentleman. Please know that you will continuously be in our prayers. Our hearts, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you mourn the loss of a son, husband, brother and friend. May his loving memories sustain you and give you comfort. May God give you peace to know that he is has another hero in Heaven.
Jennifer Kalish
April 23, 2006
To the family of Derrick Cothran:
I am very sorry for your loss. I knew Derrick all throughout high school. I graduated with him. Derrick was a great friend, classmate, and Marine. He will be missed by everyone. I send my condolences to his family and wife. Things will get better. I know it is hard at first, but Derrick is watching down on all of us and making the world a better place.
Julie Reyes
April 22, 2006
I am deeply sorry for the loss of Derrick.i'm sending my condolences to Derrick's family. Especially his wife Victoria Cothran. I'm here for you mamas. I know you are in pain. You just have to keep your head up. He will be missed. Always and forever remembered. Derrick J Cothran
Penny Trac
April 22, 2006
My heart goes out to the family of Derrick. He was a fine young man. We are deeply saddened by your lost. Derrick played football at Union College with my son. I remember watching him play football and I was amazed at the energy he had on and off the field. One of my fondest memories was one of our last games it was in the 4 quarter and it was pouring down rain, the other team needed to make the extra point to win the game. Derrick shot out across the line and block the point. He was so happy that he took off down the field to the 50-yard line dove into the mud and turn over to make a mud angel. We all laugh and he was muddy from head to toe. From that day on I always called him my mud angel number 24. He will be missed and our hearts go out to you.
Penny & Tim Tracy and
Joey Waters #18
ROBYN GARSIDE
April 22, 2006
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I AM DEEPLY SADDENED BY YOUR LOSS. MAY PEACE FIND YOU WITH THE COMFORT OF YOUR SPECIAL MEMORIES AND HIS SMILE. HE WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. SEMPER FI
"Thank YOU for your service to our country" -Our Hero
Roni Victoriano
April 21, 2006
With you death Lance Cpl. Derrick J. Cothran-the world lost a special Marine way too soon. Derrick you will always and forever be in our hearts, thoughts, and prayers. Go rest high upon that mountain for the has called you there. We love you.
Benny & Roni Victoriano
Forever in our hearts, minds, and prayers.
April 21, 2006
Our Hero--We Love you !!
April 20, 2006
Joshua and April Morales
April 20, 2006
To Derrick's family and friends-
My family and I are praying for you and your family during this difficult time. We send our deepest empathy as we lost our Marine on 11/30/05 in Fallujah. We are comforted to know that our Marines are serving their country with such honor and bravery. We are so proud of our Marines and all of our other service men and women for all that they have done and continue to do to keep us safe and to give us the freedom we have that so many take for granted.
They are true Heroes and need to always be remembered for their selflessness and sacrifice to better our world. We will forever be united in the loss of our heros. We are so sorry for your loss and hope our words will ease some of the pain, and maybe fill some of your emptiness.
Yesterday, Today, Forever – Semper Fi - Marines!
Our sincerest gratitude for their bravery-
The family of Cpl. William "Billy" Taylor
2/6 WPNS
KIA outside of Fallujah 11/30/05
Natalie Rodriguez
April 19, 2006
My heart goes out to you and we prey for you every day. Derrick will be missed he was a good person. Know that he is your gaurdian angel now. He is a Hero to all. Please Remember that we are on the next street over and that we are always here if you need us for anything.
We Love you
Jodi Armenta
April 19, 2006
To the family and friends of Lcpl Cothran. I morn you loss as a Marine wife and sister as well as a Louisiana native. It is a terrible thing to face the loss of a loved one. Take comfort in knowing that Derrick (also my Marine brother's name) now rest not only with God, but with some of the bravest, most honorable men this world has ever seen. He is and will remain a Marine and you all a Marine family.
We remain your family and are here to offer support in whatever way possible.
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
April 19, 2006
My heartfelt sympathy to the Cothran family in the loss of Derrick. I did not know Derrick, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. Derrick you are a hero and you will never be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom
To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~
Dianne Werner
April 18, 2006
To the Family ofLance Cpl. Derrick J. Cothran--I am so sorry for your loss. I pray you find peace and comfort in Jesus' loving arms.
'Jesus said"Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven." Matt 5:12
A Proud 172 Stryker Mom
Randal kramer
April 18, 2006
" No greater love hath any man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friend" John 15:13
Semper Fi
USMC 83-87
April 18, 2006
To the Family of Lance Cpl. Derrick J. Cothran:
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courgeous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guestbook for the rest of my life. We lost a son 12/1/05.
I know first hand there are no words right now that will bring you the comfort and peace you need. Just know that you are not alone. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you mourn this loss. We don't know each other, will probably never meet, but will forever be united in the loss of our Heroes. We have, unfortunately joined a group none of us wanted to join, an ever-growing group of families in this situation. May God grant you peace and strength to get through this and be able once again to smile at a memory rather than have only the tears that flow so easily now. To be so proud of your loved one and so saddened at the same time is a mix of emotions very difficult to deal with. I am sorry that I never knew your soldier personally, but none of these courageous men and women will be forgotten. They will never be able to be replaced, but sometime, someday your loving memories will help to sustain you. This courageous soldier will forever now be your Angel watching over you all for the rest of your lives. It's what brings me some measure of peace and comfort and I hope it will you as well. To his family and friends in pain, I offer this comfort. When you find yourself in that dark sorrowful place, think not only of how you will miss him, but instead recall the years, days, hours and minutes gifted to you by his presence. If you ever want to talk, I'm only an e:mail away and would love for you to tell me more about your Hero. God Bless this courageous soldier and family.
Pam Adams (SFC Brent Adams, KIA 12/1/05 Ramadi, Iraq)
[email protected]
(Millersville, PA )
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You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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