Franklin – Edwin "Ed" Pat Cotton, 69, of Franklin, VA went to be with the Lord on Monday March 13, 2017 surrounded by his family at Norfolk General Hospital.

Ed was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, nephew and friend to many. He recently began attending Rock Church in Franklin, where he rededicated his life to the Lord. He was enjoying attending church regularly until his health would no longer allow him. He enjoyed playing poker with his friends, watching NASCAR and he loved fishing and spending time at his favorite spot down by the river. Ed was a Veteran of the US Air Force and was retired from Blackwater Pallet Company after working there 28 years until they closed in 2007. Most people who knew Ed, knew that he was one of the strongest, most stubborn, hard- headed and determined men on the planet, but he also had a good heart and would do anything for the family he loved. Ed had been battling pancreatic cancer and fought a good fight against it but it was his time to go home to his Savior Jesus Christ.

Ed left behind a family that loved him dearly and will miss him greatly: his wife of 29 years, Wanda Cotton ; three daughters, Carla Vaughan and husband Doug, Andrea Cotton and Jamie Story and husband Kendall; five grandchildren, Cheyenne Vaughan, Dakota Vaughan, Ashton Story, Amelia Story and Colton Cotton Story; his mother, Juanita Cotton; two sisters, Denise Harcum and husband David and Jennifer Harrell and husband Randy; an aunt, Joyce Wynns and a host of nieces and nephews.

Ed was predeceased by his father Allen F. "Pat" Cotton.

A memorial service with Military Honors will be held at 2PM Friday March 17, 2017 at Rock Church in Franklin with Pastor Danny Dillon officiating. The family will receive visitors at a reception in the fellowship hall one hour prior to the service and at other times at Mrs. Juanita Cotton's home at 31153 Sycamore Church Rd. Please dress casual as Ed never wanted anyone to dress up on his behalf. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Rock Church of Franklin "Build the Gym" Fund. www.wrightfuneralhome.org