October 25, 2021, 91, Goldsboro –
William Kindred Cotton, 91, was graciously welcomed into the presence of his Savior on Monday, October 25, 2021 at Wayne UNC Hospital. Kenny was born in Wayne County on June 29, 1930 to the late Barney Joseph Cotton and Emma McClenny Cotton.
Upon graduation from Goldsboro High School in 1949, Kenny enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served his country as a radar operator on the USS Manchester during the Korean War. Continuing to honor his country, Kenny served for many years as the commander of the Veteran of Foreign Wars Wayne County Post 11.
A successful entrepreneur for over 40 years, Kenny opened C&E Construction in 1971. Throughout his career, he was dedicated to completing each job to perfection. His work introduced him to many clients throughout the area that was forever grateful for his meticulous work and care for each of them.
Taking in the beauty of God’s creation around him, Kenny relished every opportunity to go fishing. The companionship of his sons-in-law and grandchildren only made the trips more enjoyable. To be on the water was a lifelong calling for Kenny, as he enjoyed swimming in his earlier years and also served as a lifeguard.
Working in his yard and garden was just another way Kenny found communion with his Lord. Many self-made bluebird boxes adorned his yard, as he enjoyed the colorful sights and melodious tunes that each bird brought. The bounty of his harvest and his bluebird boxes were gifts he enjoyed sharing with family, friends, and neighbors.
Family was of utmost importance to Kenny, and he appreciated every opportunity he had to spend time with them. His church family was simply an extension of his own. He loved worshiping and fellowshipping with his sisters and brothers at Westwood United Methodist Church and served for many years as a Sunday school teacher.
Kenny is survived by his wife of 65 years, Hilda Price Cotton; children, Connie Lynn Daniel and husband Alston, Patricia Sue Taylor and husband Sam, and William Joseph Cotton; grandchildren, William Alston Daniel, Jessica Noel Hammock and husband Chris; Emily Lane Daniel, Alex Taylor Garris and husband Matt and Cameron Joseph Taylor; and was anticipating the birth of his first great-grandchild.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Barney Joseph Cotton, Jr. and Charles Henry Cotton; and sister, Julia Mae Cotton.
A service to celebrate Kenny’s life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 28, 2021 in the chapel of Seymour Funeral Home with Pastor Janet Balasko officiating. The family will greet friends immediately following the service at the funeral home. Interment will be on Friday, October 29, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. in Wayne Memorial Park.
Special thanks to his wonderful neighbors and church friends, who cared for Kenny and his family in so many kind and thoughtful ways through the years and during this time of loss. The family would also like to express their appreciation for the compassionate care provided by the staff on the 6th floor of Wayne UNC Health Care as well as the staff in the Emergency Room, the staff at Wake Medical Acute Rehabilitation and the 3HC Rehabilitation staff. Love and heartfelt thanks are expressed to his caregivers and friends, Peggy Barnes, Susan Martin, Paige Reagan, Angie Magliochetti and Lisa Mooring.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in his memory to Westwood United Methodist Church, 130 Short Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
