Richard Craig Cotten, 74, of Huntsville, Alabama, passed away on November 4, 2024.
A funeral service will be held at Laughlin Service Funeral Home on Monday, November 11, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., with Deacon Mike Sudnick of Holy Spirit Catholic Church officiating. Visitation will be at Laughlin Service Funeral Home on the same day from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Valhalla Memory Gardens, Huntsville.
Craig is survived by his loving wife, Kathy Cotten; his daughters, Erica Leah Cotten, Tara Corrine Cotten, and Megan Lynn Cotten; and his granddaughter, Quinn Claire Ennis. He was preceded in death by his mother, Phyllis Lattimer Higgins; his sister, Shelly Cotten; and his stepfather, George Quinn.
Born in Portsmouth, Virginia, on January 25, 1950, Craig enjoyed an adventurous childhood playing on the beach with his older sister, Shelly, and their family dog, Zombie. After the family moved to Huntsville in 1960, he graduated from Huntsville High School, where he played on the football team. He went on to study marine biology at Birmingham-Southern College and later earned a master’s degree in computer science.
Craig had an adventurous spirit and a deep love for travel, exploring new places whenever he could. In retirement, he fulfilled his dream of owning a second home in Saint Augustine, Florida, where he enjoyed coastal life. A dedicated Alabama football fan, he rarely missed a game. Craig was also a talented writer, accomplished pianist, skilled chess player, and science fiction fan, finding joy and fulfillment in each of these passions.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a favorite charity.
