Mr. Hurlen Cottrell Sr.

Our Dad, Hurlen Lee Cottrell Sr., entered this life on October 1, 1934, in Palestine, Arkansas, as the firstborn of Lonnie and Bertha Cottrell in a family of thirteen. From his earliest days, he demonstrated the quiet strength and sense of responsibility that would define his character, earning the admiration of neighbors and family alike. He confessed a hope in Christ at an early age at El Cannon Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Mark Smith. His faith remained a cornerstone of his life, guiding him through every season with humility and grace. Our Dad was united in holy matrimony to Deloise B. White in 1955. Their marriage of over fifty years was marked by mutual devotion and love. To this union were born nine children—each cherished and nurtured under his steadfast care. He endured the sorrow of losing his devoted wife in October 2006 and his daughter Carolyn Cottrell in December 2017, yet he continued to lead his family with courage and compassion. Our Dad was a diligent provider who first worked the family farm before embarking on a distinguished career at Halstead Manufacturing in Wynne, Arkansas. For more than thirty years, he labored swing shifts with unwavering dedication, always mindful of the needs of his wife and children. Upon retirement, he carried that same work ethic and quiet pride into every aspect of his life. Our beloved dad was preceded in death by his wife, Deloise B. Cottrell; his daughter, Carolyn Cottrell; his parents, Lonnie and Bertha Cottrell; his sisters, Gerthia, Zella Mae, Vertory, Zeoporia, and Joyce; and his brothers, Calvin, Theophils, Ervin, and Lonnie. While we mourn their loss, we rejoice in knowing they now rest together in God’s eternal peace. He peacefully departed this life on Sunday, July 28, 2025, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Though his passing leaves a profound void, his legacy of love, faith, and hard work will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Our Dad is survived by his nine devoted children—Arthur Cottrell (Courtney) of Sherwood, AR; Hurlen Cottrell Jr. (Marilyn) of Little Rock, AR; Darlene Cottrell of Pine Bluff, AR; Beretha Bailey (Bryan) of DeSoto, TX; Alex Cottrell (Lorraine) of Little Rock, AR; Gloria Johnson of Sherwood, AR; Tony Cottrell (Renea) of Dallas, TX; and Teresa Cade (Terrence) of Fate, TX. He also leaves a richly woven family tapestry of 26 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and dear friends who will carry forward his memory. He was one of four siblings who survive him: Reverend Leroy Cottrell of Memphis, TN; Johnny Cottrell (Diane) of Forrest City, AR; and Althaola Easley of Forrest City, AR. He also leaves behind one sister-in-law and six brothers-in-law, each of whom treasured him as a beloved brother and friend. In celebrating Our Dad’s life, we remember a devoted husband, a loving father, a steadfast brother, and a man of deep faith whose work and witness spoke volumes. May his example continue to inspire us to live with purpose, serve with humility, and love without reserve.

Mr. Hurlen Cottrell Sr.

October 1, 1934 - July 27, 2025