Peoples Funeral Home | Marianna, FL

Obituary For Ms. Catherine Anne Cotton

Catherine Anne Cotton passed away on May 13, 2020, at the age of 34 in Marianna, FL. Catherine is survived by her father and mother, Dr. Rickey and Anna Cotton of Lakeland, FL; sisters Caren Tran (husband Cao) of Plant City, FL, and Cristin Cooper (husband Brandon) of Olney, MD; nephew, Kai; and niece, Jade.

Due to her autism, Catherine was a resident at Sunland Marianna, where she received wonderful care and profound love. Catherine was born on April 10, 1986, in Columbus, GA, and was adopted at ten days old with deep, abundant love and joy; she was always deeply wanted. Throughout her life, her luminous, smiling brown eyes emitted a joyful happiness, especially when her parents walked into the room on a visit to Sunland. Her soft, brown curls swept in sync with her steps as she walked with her charming bounce. When asked who was the prettiest girl at Sunland, she always indicated herself because her daddy had taught her that she was.

In Catherine’s vivaciousness, she captivated hearts and developed unexplainably special connections with her caretakers at Sunland Marianna over the last twelve years. Her days were filled with activities that brought her delight and comfort. She looked forward to van rides, walks, playtime, watching Shrek, visitors, and chocolate chip cookies. Catherine loved chocolate chip cookies. Though she communicated with the world differently due to her autism, she taught all of us—family and caregivers—more about love, acceptance, forgiveness, and contentment in her 34 years than can be explained. We identify Catherine as having led our family as our greatest spiritual teacher. Her life was a profound gift and blessing to many. In her passing, she continued in sharing that gift with others through organ donation.

The family wishes to extend their immeasurable gratitude to the wonderful staff and caregivers at Sunland Marianna who gave so much love and happiness to Catherine during her years there. It was truly her home. Additional thanks are expressed to the staff who exhibited heartfelt care and true compassion during Catherine’s stay at Jackson Hospital (Marianna, FL).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make contributions to Sunland-Marianna Welfare Trust Fund for the residents at Thiel Center; 3700 Williams Drive-Marianna, Florida 32446. Please put for “Thiel Center Residents” on the memo line.

Information about celebrating Catherine’s life will be shared later with arrangements entrusted to the Caring Staff at Peoples Funeral Home of Marianna.

Guest Book

I will always remember little Catherine and the joy she brought to all who met her. I am happy that she had a part of my heart and that I could be a part of her life in her younger years. May God's peace, comfort, and strength be with all of you as your memories live on. I thank God for the gift of eternity and that Catherine has reached her perfection in Jesus Christ. My love to you all--Kathy (Syvertsen) Hockenberry

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Dear Rickey, Anna, and Family -- We were so sorry to get the news about Catherine's passing. It was such a blessing to read the wonderful tribute to her. We're asking our Blessed Comforter to remind you over and over of his sweet and constant presence with you. With deepest sympathy, Gary & Bonnie Yost

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Dear Dr. Cotton, Anna, and family, may you feel God's comforting arms through this time of loss. I am praying for you. Christina (Joyce) Stanley

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Dear Dr. Cotton and Anna, Thank you for allowing me to care for all of your girls when they were little. It seems like a lifetime ago. I only knew Catherine as a very little girl but I've thought of her and prayed for her often over the years. I'm so very sorry for your loss. My heart is with yours now. Praying for peace and comfort, and sending my love. Cindy (Allen) Drake

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Dear Dr. and Mrs. Cotton: I know what it is like to lose a daughter, and my heart and prayers are with you. Much love, Mary Ann

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Oh, dear friends, how I pray for the Tenderest of Loves to keep watch over you during these painful days! My heart aches for your loss and my words stumble through tears as I pray. God surround you and carry you through... Ky

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Dear Cotton family, I am a friend of Cristin's from Oakdale Church in Maryland. Thirty years ago, my 20-year-old sister was the recipient of a family's indescribable generosity in donating a liver when their loved one passed (and again 18 months later). Last month, we celebrated Lynn Catherine's 50th birthday. You may never meet the recipients and their families, to whom Catherine Anne gave the gift of life, and for whom your decision was an answer to prayer. But I want you to hear right now from someone who's been there (twice): Thank you! May God bless you more than you could ask or imagine. Anne Jordan

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Dear Anna, Rickey, Cristen and Caren. My heart is with you. Your beautiful family is a blessing to this world. May the love that you've shared embrace and comfort you. Much love to you all! Elena

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Dear Anna, Rickey, Cristen and Caren. My heart is with you. Your beautiful family is a blessing to this world. May the love that you've shared embrace and comfort you.

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Rickey, Anna and girls. Sandra and I are saddened for you. We know this is a very difficult time. We lost our son, Gary Jr. to cancer in 2011 and it was so hard but the blessed Holy Spirit has comforted us in the years since and we are confident you all will also be comforted. Love you all - Gary and Sandra Pickens- South Charleston, West Virginia

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Dear Cotton family; I am sorry for your loss. We never lose loved ones with the assurances of Heaven, but that doesn't make the loss feel any less. I still recall Caren talking about her sister way back when I taught her in 6th grade. She was loved and will continue to be loved. May you find joy and peace. Tom Young

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Dear Dr. and Mrs. Cotton we are so sorry for your loss and know how deeply loved Catherine is. We are sending prayers for peace and comfort as you celebrate Catherine's life. May her soul and all the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace. May light perpetual shine upon her. Love Matt and Charity Humm

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Dr. and Mrs. Cotton, I did not have the privilege of knowing Catherine, but she was obviously a lovely and beloved daughter. I commend you highly for having adopted this precious girl and providing a loving family for her. She was special indeed. What a grand reunion it will be in heaven, with Catherine perfectly healed!

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Dr. Cotton and Anna, I am so sorry for your loss. Catherine was amazing, and I learned so much from her in the few short years that I knew your family. She holds a special place in my heart and I have chosen my career in Special Education Administration due to the time I spent taking care of Catherine. Sending much love your way! Marietta Chuirazzi Burks, former student SEC

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Catherine was just a small girl when I was a student at Southeastern. Whenever I would see her she always had a smile on her face. Dr and Mrs Cotton my condolences for your loss. Your daughter was a day of sunshine. Former student Cathleen Winegardner Wiederkehr

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What a beautiful tribute to Catherine, reflecting the loving and caring hearts of her parents and siblings. It has been a 34 year journey of love! John & Faith

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Peoples Funeral Home