Frank Cotten

Frank Noah Cotten passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at his home in Newland, NC, and is now singing with the heavenly chorus. He was 95 years old.
Frank was born on May 5, 1930, in Des Moines, Iowa, but spent most of his youth in Riverside, CA., where he met his first wife, La Dena. After graduating from UCLA with a degree in Chemical Engineering, he was drafted into the army during the Korean War. He worked in the aerospace and defense industry for many years before moving into the newly emerging field of plastics injection molding. He settled in Oxford, NC with his family in 1980 and spent the next 25 years working to grow the plastics industry in North and South Carolina. He helped develop the Polymer Extension Program at UNC-Charlotte. In 2001, Frank married Mille and settled into life with her, in their home in Linville Land Harbor, NC. Of all the places he lived, he loved living in Land Harbor the most because there was just so much to do!
Frank always had a deep faith in the Lord. Most will remember him with a big smile, quick laughter, and full of eternal optimism. The man never met a stranger! He loved to sing and spent many years singing in barbershop choruses. He learned Bridge early in his life and played twice a week in Land Harbor. He was an avid golfer, choral singer and strong Christian leader.
A celebration of his life will be held at the Golf House in Linville Land Harbor at 1665 Goose Hollow Rd, Linville,NC, on Saturday, September 6th. Reception at 10am followed by Frank's memorial service at 11am. In lieu of flowers, a memorial can be sent to the Veterans Administration at James H Quillen VAMC, VA Center for Development & Civic Engagement (135), PO Box 4000, Mountain Home, TN 37684. Donations can also be made online through cdceportal.VA.gov.
Frank is survived by his loving wife, Mildred S. Cotten, four daughters, Celia M. Swanson, Cheryl M. Bowlin (husband Stan), Jennifer L. Thomas (husband Andy), Lynne Cournoyer (husband John), two brothers, multiple grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two wives, Helen LaDena Cotten & Edna S Cotten, and one son, Andrew N. Cotten.