James Richard Cotton, 74, of Pine Bluff, passed away January 10, 2026, in Pine Bluff in the presence of his loving family.
He was born on July 11, 1953, in Pine Bluff, son of Herman Freddy Cotton and Ora Lee Russell Cotton.
Mr. Cotton was reared and received his early education in the Pine Bluff school district. He worked as a skilled drywall professional, painter and handyman.
Mr. Cotton loved a good game of pool and hanging with his buddies. In his younger years, a summer weekend spent at the Saline River with family and friends was the perfect weekend. In later years, a good old western was a great way to pass the time.
Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his son; Brian Cotton, two sisters; Maxine Heird (TH) and Betty Rogers (Clifford), brother-in-law; Perry Herron, and two baby brothers.
Survivors include one daughter, Tonya Cotton, two grandsons; Harley Cotton (Krista) of Woodlawn and Hunter Reynolds of Sheridan, one granddaughter; Jessica Laminack (Daniel) of Sheridan, four sisters; Bertha May Howard (Paul) of Pine Bluff, Jeanette Cockrell (David) of Pine Bluff, Shirley Jean Herron of Pine Bluff and Katie Marie Nichols (Huey) of Warren; and five great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at a future date.