Katheryn Candice Cotten

1980 - 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Katheryn (Kat, Candi, & Betty) Candice Cotten, who departed this life on Thursday, August 28, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family and her fiancé, Scott Linder.

Born into an oilfield family, Kat's early years were filled with movement and change, living in Mesa, CA; Alice, TX; Burns Flat, OK; Oklahoma City, OK; and Alief, TX. She graduated from Elsik High School in Alief the spring of 1998. Those early travels helped shape her ability to make fast, genuine connections wherever she went.

The day after graduating, Kat set off on an adventure to Spain with her parents, exploring the southern coast and Gibraltar before visiting family in Paris, France. She cherished that trip-and undoubtedly left quite the impression on Paris in return.

Kat eventually settled in Houston, TX, where she raised her two children, Ian and Katelyn. In 2010, they moved to Montgomery, TX. Kat worked in various roles-as a waitress, barista, and assistant manager-in local restaurants, where her sass, quick humor, and bold personality made her unforgettable. When Kat met someone, she didn't just make an impression-she made a friend.

She was sharp, fiercely independent, and unapologetically herself. Kat never backed down from a challenge and she met life with fire, laughter, and determination.

In January 2024, she met Scott Linder, and the two quickly formed a deep bond. They shared many adventures, and on December 17, 2024, Scott proposed on a Caribbean cruise. They were eagerly planning their wedding for November 8, 2025.

Kat was a true survivor-beating breast cancer in 2023 with courage and resilience. Though her time was far too short, the impact she made will be felt for a lifetime.

She was the youngest of four children born to Robert and the late Sharon Cotten. Kat is survived by her children, Ian Connor Avendaño of Tomball, TX, and Katelyn Madison Avendaño of Puyallup, WA; her siblings, Mary Jennifer Sandoval of Puyallup, WA; Robert C. Cotten Jr. of Wichita Falls, TX; and James David Cotten of Houston, TX; and her father, Robert C. Cotten Sr. of Tomball, TX.

Kat will be remembered for her fiery spirit, her spice, and the love she gave to those around her. She lived life boldly-on her own terms-and her memory will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Kat's Celebration of Life will be held at Frankenboltzzz Brewing Co., 173 N FM 1468, Montgomery, Texas 77375 on September 7th, 2:00PM to 5:00 PM.