George Eldon Cotton, age 77 of Smithville Arkansas died Friday, December 30, 2011 at his home. He was born September 25, 1934 at Alex, Oklahoma to C.J. and Vina Weston Cotton. He worked in the oil fields of New Mexico until he became a pastor in 1971. He pastored 3 churches in Texas and then retired due to health reasons and moved to Smithville in 1980 where he worked at the Democrat Gazette as a bundle hauler for 12 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister Roxie Qualls and one brother, Clyde Cotton.

Survivors include his wife of 60 years Alice Keith Cotton, two daughters LaVaughn Barrett of Acushnet, MA and Deborah Cherry of Inwood, WV, one brother, Allan Cotton of Smithville, AR, ten grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends.

A visitation and service was held at Qualls Funeral Home Chapel in Cave City, AR. On Tuesday, January 3.

Honorary pallbearers are Jonathan Barrett, Eldon Barrett, Nathan Cherry, Darrin Cherry, Kimberly Bradbury, Nichole Richards, Amanda Cunningham, Anna Barrett, Cheryl Barrett and Lavonda Cherry.

A graveside service will be held at the Cavness Cemetery in Mason, Texas on Friday, January 6, at 1:00 p.m.