Lanterns
Official Obituary of

Gattis Nelson Cotton, Jr.

October 3, 1956 ~ April 23, 2025 (age 68) 68 Years Old
Obituary Image

Gattis Cotton, Jr. Obituary

Mr. Gattis Nelson Cotton, Jr., age 68, of Chapel Hill, NC entered eternal rest on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at his residence.

The Obituary

Gattis Nelson Cotton, Jr.  lovingly known as "Buckwheat," was born on October 3, 1956, to the late Gattis Cotton, Sr. and Doris Horton Cotton. He peacefully departed this life on April 23, 2025, at his residence, surrounded by his family.

With a heart full of kindness and generosity, Gattis profoundly touched the lives of those around him, forming enduring friendships and earning the admiration of all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His love for animals of all kinds was a testament to his compassionate spirit.

Gattis received his education at Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools before pursuing a degree in Computer Science at ECPI. He dedicated twenty years of his career to Blue Cross Blue Shield before retiring from UNC Hospitals.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Gattis, Sr. and Doris Cotton, as well as his brother, William Anthony Cotton and two nephews, Anthony Billingslea and Jaylen Parker.

Gattis leaves behind a legacy of love and fond memories, cherished by his son, Lavar Cotten; granddaughter, Lauren Cotten; and siblings, Ivy Jacqueline Parker (Michael), Valencia Bratton (Leamon), Teresa Ann Cotton, and Tony Alandis Cotton. He is also survived by nephews, Bryan Parker, Kenneth Parker, Julius Bratton, Terrance Cotton, and Jaylon Chestnut; nieces, Telisha Nickerson and Jene Bratton; one aunt, Francis Taylor; one uncle, Joseph Horton (Ellen); and a beloved family friend, Sharmaine Hill.

 

 

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Professional services entrusted to Knotts Funeral Home-Chapel Hill, NC

 Service Program


Services

Flower Delivery
Friday
May 2, 2025

10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Knotts Funeral Home
113 N Graham Street
Chapel Hill, NC 27516

Memorial Service
Saturday
May 3, 2025

11:00 AM
St. Paul AME Church
101 N. Merritt Mill Rd.
Chapel Hill, NC 27511

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