David Leo Cottrell

David Leo Cottrell, 88, formerly of West Warwick passed away at the Philip Hulitar Center on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 with his daughter Cheryl by his side. He made many wonderful memories and journeyed life hand in hand with his late wife Bertha (Rego) Cottrell.
He spent 32 years as a truck driver, criss-crossing the country's highways and byways for various companies including Johnson Motor Lines and St. Johnsbury Trucking. In 1994, he made the selfless decision to retire from his truck-driving career to care for his ailing wife, Bertha, showcasing a depth of love that defined his character. He was a proud member of the New England Teamsters, embracing his roles with total commitment.
Post-retirement, he channeled his driving skills into other roles, becoming a limo driver and later transporting guests for the Hilton Garden Hotel in Warwick, RI. Not content to slow down, he also served as a RIPTA driver for the RIDE buses, providing a crucial service to the community.
In the early 2000s, he took on the important responsibility of being a crossing guard in Coventry, stationed conveniently at Oak Haven Elementary, where his granddaughter, Emily, attended. Their daily reunions, marked by smiles and shared moments, became a cherished routine. He also was a crossing guard at the Alan Shawn Feinstein Middle School and for a brief time was also a school bus monitor in Coventry.
A die-hard NY Giants fan, he was an absolute football fanatic, and his enthusiasm for the sport knew no bounds. He was very knowledgeable about football remembering certain games and players from many years prior. When his daughter, Cheryl was young, he called Super Bowl Sunday a holiday! Over the last few years, he started rooting for the Patriots because his daughter and granddaughter were fans, but his heart was always with the NY Giants. He also enjoyed watching the Red Sox and was so happy when they won the 2004 World Series wishing that his late wife, Bertha, could have been there to experience it with him. He also enjoyed watching politics and news stations.
Even well into his 70s, he remained an active and vital presence, frequenting the gym to stay fit and healthy.
David's love will live on in his daughter Cheryl Keller; granddaughter Emily Keller and great-grandson Domenic Sarlo III. David found a whole new dimension of joy in his granddaughter, Emily, and great-grandson Domenic. Their presence brought a smile to his face and a renewed zest for life. David is predeceased by his mother Bertha (Nelson) Cottrell and sister Betty (Cottrell) Linker. He also leaves several nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be Wednesday, December 27 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. followed by a funeral service at 4:00 p.m. A private burial will take place at a later date.