Official Obituary ofRalph Cotton

Western Writer Ralph Cotton, age, 78, of Jensen Beach, Florida passed away on February 14, 2024 in New Albany, Indiana. Born March 16, 1945, in Grayson County, Kentucky, son of late Flossie (Beatty) and Alton Cotton.
During his life time, Ralph worked several occupations such as deck hand on riverboat barges, Local Union 89 truck driver, bridge painter, union iron worker, and was an entrepreneur. He spent 14 years as a lay associate for the Lutheran Church in the Portland neighborhood. He began his author career when he was published by St. Martin's Press in 1994. His first novel While Angels Dance was a candidate for the Pulitzer. He also authored for Pocket Books and spent the last 20+ years with Penguin/Random House. Ralph is very proud that he was selected and designated as an Honorary Arizona Ranger in recognition of his Big Iron series. He and Mary Lynn retired from Corydon, Indiana, to Florida where they spent many years writing books and enjoying life fishing, boating, traveling and beautiful sunsets. Ralph passed away peacefully with his loving family surrounding him knowing that he was much loved.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years Mary Lynn (Branch) Cotton, mother to Bridget Cotton and son Patrick Cotton (deceased). And his ex-spouse Becky Biggs, mother to daughter Pamela Cotton (John Kaiser) and son William Cotton. Ralph was preceded in death by his brothers and sisters.
He has six grandchildren (Haley who helped in his final care), three great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He will be dearly missed and always remembered. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Hosparus Health Southern Indiana, St. Jude Children Hospital or Red Cloud Indian School.
Cremation has been chosen and no service has been scheduled at this time.