Everett “Porter” Cottrell, age 86, of Glen Carbon, IL, passed away on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at Anderson Hospital in Maryville, IL. Everett was born on June 24, 1937 in Granite City, IL, a son of the late Early Brooks Cottrell and Sadie (Andrews) Cottrell.
On October 4, 1957, Porter married Carol Bozarth, the love of his life in Granite City, IL, and Carol passed away on August 12, 2010.
Porter was a part of the faith family at New Bethel United Methodist Church in Glen Carbon, IL. He retired from Union Electric as a pipefitter after many years of dedicated service. In his younger years, Porter played. Whether it was the washboard in his kitchen band, endless softball throughout the summers, or laughing, dancing, and telling stories, he was often the life of the party. His passion was working in his garden and maintaining his yard to perfection. Porter’s greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends whom he loved dearly. He left an impact on everyone he met–whether they liked it or not. He never met a stranger and will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend to many.
In addition to his parents and wife, Porter was preceded in death by his siblings, Charles “Chuck” Cottrell, Harry Cottrell, and Erma Beide.
He is survived by his loving children, Kelly (Claudia Fulshaw) Cottrell of Durham, NC and Chris (Kim) Cottrell of Edwardsville, IL; proud grandfather to Danielle (Isaac) Barber of Ft. Wayne, IN and Joseph Cottrell of St. Louis, MO; proud great-grandfather to Urijah Barber and Eden Barber; many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
In celebration of his life, a memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 9 at New Bethel United Methodist Church in Glen Carbon, IL with Pastor Penelope “Penny” Barber officiating. The receiving line will begin at 11:00 am, service at 12:30, followed by a lunch reception at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to New Bethel United Methodist Church or Rheumatoid Arthritis Foundation.
According to his wishes he gifted himself to Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO.
Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.irwinchapel.com.
