HR 229

HR229 192161-1 By Representative Grimsley RFD: First Read: 22-FEB-18 192161-1:n:02/22/2018:JEC/jec LSA2018-1013 MOURNING THE DEATH OF MR. ARDIS BREWER COTTON. WHEREAS, we deeply regret to learn of the death of Mr. Ardis Brewer Cotton of Headland, Alabama, on February 16, 2018, at 92 years of age, and we uplift his inspiring life and legacy with utmost reverence and respect; and WHEREAS, the passing of Mr. Ardis Brewer Cotton leaves a void in the lives of his loving family, many friends, and the entire community, where he was highly regarded; and WHEREAS, Mr. Cotton graduated from a Saco, Alabama, high school, and earned his Bachelor's Degree from Alabama State University and his Master's Degree from Tuskegee Institute; he was a member of Phi Beta Sigma fraternity and the Masonic Lodge Fellowship 439; and WHEREAS, Mr. Cotton served with much honor in World War II; a lifelong educator, he taught at Headland, Henry County, and Abbeville Middle Schools, Albany State University, and the Headland Adult Education program; he contributed exceptional leadership as the principle of Hartford High School; and WHEREAS, Mr. Cotton was a consummate community activist and a champion for youth and education; in retirement, he worked at the Henry County Courthouse as a Voter Registrant; and WHEREAS, he accepted Christ into his life at an early age; after moving to Headland, he joined Greater Shiloh Baptist Church, where he served on various ministries and was a devoted Deacon, Financial Secretary, and Sunday School teacher; and WHEREAS, Mr. Cotton married the love of his life, Emma Mathis, on May 20, 1955, and their union was blessed with three children; and WHEREAS, survivors include his son, Byron C. Cotton; daughter, Kassandra Sherrod (James); two granddaughters, Jade and Alora; daughter-in-law, Betty; four sisters-in-law, Catherine Humphrey "like a daughter" (Willie), Brenda Cotton, Florine Mitchell, Genevieve Cotton; godson, Kendrick Spurling (LaFrances); and numerous nephews, nieces, and friends; he was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Charlotte Cotton; beloved and devoted wife of 63 years; son, Lawrence; two sisters, Eulalia Coston and Oadie Ross; and two brothers, Samuel Cotton and James Cotton (twin); and grandson, James Sherrod, Jr.; and WHEREAS, Mr. Ardis Brewer Cotton was a valued member of the community; although his presence is greatly missed, his memory is cherished in the hearts and minds of all those who were fortunate enough to know him; now therefore, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE LEGISLATURE OF ALABAMA, That while grieving the death of Mr. Ardis Brewer Cotton, we are extremely grateful for his abundant life, and we offer this resolution in highest tribute to his legacy, as well as with heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends.