THOMAS D. COTTON

“

he loved cooking and watching sports, especially the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago Bears

Thomas D. Cotton passed away on November 1, 2026. He was born in East St. Louis, Illinois, and lived a life marked by intelligence, compassion, and steady devotion to both his work and the people he loved.

Mr. Cotton was a graduate of Purdue and built a distinguished career as an electric and aviation engineer. He retired from Lockheed after years of skilled and dedicated service. His professional life reflected one of the accomplishments of which he was most proud: overcoming adversity to become a successful engineer at a time when diversity was not widely welcomed. His achievements stood as a testament to his determination, talent, and strength of character.

Beyond his career, Thomas Cotton was known as a warm, caring, and compassionate man with a deep love of humanity.  He was loved by everyone who knew him and was remembered as someone who never had an enemy. His kindness, generosity, intelligence, and highly skillfulness brought both heart and ability to every part of his life. His compassion and love for his family were central to whom he was, and he was always there for them in their times of need.

He also found joy in the simple pleasures that made life rich and personal. He loved cooking and watching sports, especially the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago Bears. He enjoyed building things and collecting caps, pursuits that reflected both his creativity and his keen interest in the world around him.

Thomas is survived by his wife of 42 years, Geneva Baker-Cotton, and by his niece, Joyce Garcia, who was also his devoted caretaker along with a host many family and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his father, James Cotton, and his mother, Mary Cotton; his two sisters, Gloria Cotton and Verndella Cotton-Evans; and his brother, James L. Cotton.

Thomas D. Cotton will be remembered for the example he set through perseverance, generosity, and love. His life was one of meaningful accomplishment and deep human kindness, and his memory will remain treasured by those who knew and loved him.