Donald E. Cotton, 77, a resident of Franklin for over 30 years, died Monday, October 16, 2023, at Milford Center Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Facility after a long and courageous battle with Multiple Sclerosis. He was the beloved husband of Judy A. (Martinelli) Cotton since 1968.
Born in Newton on June 10, 1946, he was the son of the late Walter and Mary (Hart) Cotton.
Donald grew up in Framingham and was in the first graduating class at Framingham North High School in 1964, where he was captain of the football team.
He proudly served in the Army during the Vietnam War from 1967-1970.
Before his retirement, Donald worked at Jordi Associates in Bellingham for 22 years.
Donald’s faith was of great importance to him. He was very involved in his church assemblies and often taught Bible studies. Donald was active in AA where he offered guidance and support to others on their path to recovery. He was an avid Patriots fan and enjoyed the beach, especially Plum Island, MA where he vacationed with his family as child and continued to do so throughout his life. Donald was a fitness enthusiast who was member of multiple gyms within the Franklin community prior to his battle with Multiple Sclerosis.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons, Derek Cotton and his wife Heather of Mendon and Bryan Cotton and his wife Lori of Plainville and four grandchildren, Devyn, Aidan, Taylor, and Hannah.
He is also survived by his sister Jean Anes and her husband John of Berlin, his brother Bruce Cotton, and many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Saturday, October 21st from 9 – 11 a.m. in the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin, 131 Main St. (ginleyfuneralhomes.com) followed by a service at 11 a.m. in the funeral home.
Burial will take place privately at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in Donald’s memory to the Paralyzed Veterans of America - National Processing Center, P.O. Box 758542, Topeka, KS 66675-8542, pva.org