Jon (JJ) Cottrell

 

On December 23, 2023, our merciful, gracious, and mighty God approved the request of His son. He has allowed our loving father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend to transition to eternal freedom to be with his beautiful wife Molly Cottrell. 

Jon Cottrell was born in Ogden, UT February 29, 1956, to Reba Cottrell and Richard Cottrell. He was the 7th child of 11 children. Ogden was where he was reared and educated, graduating from Ben Lomond High School in 1975. 

Jon better known as “JJ Cottrell” from the young age of 10 had a natural passion for boxing. His speed and endurance were impeccable. He trained under Leonard Holston and Bill Leons at the Marshall White Center where the left his footprint in the community. As he continued to set the mark in his Welter weight division 147, he was 4-time first place Golden Glove Champion, and 3-time first place winner for Nationals.

He married the love of his life Mollene (Molly) Adams “Sugar” on September 6, 1977. They moved to Denver CO to pursue his boxing career professionally. Jon and Molly’s union continued for 30 years. Throughout his years Jon also had 5 beautiful children Monique Cottrell Mellon, Erika Cottrell, Kami Cottrell, Nikolai Cottrell, and Savannah Cottrell.

Jon continued to fight professionally until 1993 when he retired from boxing. He moved back to Utah and started a new career working with the youth at Moweda Juvenile Center. As time went on he grew to love working with the youth and later transitioned to Farmington Bay Youth Center where he retired after 25 year of service.

Jon was member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he served proudly. He was well-loved in the community. He also enjoyed, and shined his light on acting ,loved singing, watching all the old Rocky movies, and spending time with family especially his grandchildren.

He leaves to celebrate his life - his greatest accomplishments and contributions to the world 4 wonderful children: Monique Cottrell-Mellon (Antonio) of Humble TX; Nikolai Cottrell Layton UT; and Kami Cottrell San Francisco CA, and Savannah Cottrell, Riverdale UT. Also, 6 siblings: Richetta Cottrell Alexander, Irad Cottrell Austin, Wesley Cottrell, Darrell Cottrell, Byron Cottrell, and Cora Cottrell Mays. His beautiful grandchildren: Da’shaun Mathis, Demetrius Mathis, Ariana Berlin, Orion Gutierrez , De’Andre Cottrell, Olivia Gutierrez, Mia Cottrell, Neko Cottrell and 3 great-grandchildren; Aybel Mathis, Ezra Mathis, and Hendrix Jon Berlin. In addition, a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins all of whom he loved dearly. 

He was preceded in death by both parents, Richard and Reba Cottrell; wife, Mollene Cottrell; daughter, Ericka Cottrell; grandson, Dominique Walton; brothers: Richard Cottrell, Baron Cottrell, Douglas Cottrell,  Fredrick Cottrell.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Aaron’s Mortuary 496 24th St. A viewing will be held prior to the services from 10:00 am-10:45 am. Interment, West Point Cemetery.