Cornelius Elijah Cotton

Cornelius Elijah Cotton, 93, and better known to his family and friends as CE or Lige, was a cherished member of his community and beloved family man. He went to be with his Lord on November 12, 2025. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Cleveland, MS. A Celebration of Life will follow at 11:00 AM. Graveside service will be at the Old Cleveland Cemetery,

Lige was born on December 31, 1931, to Roland M. (better known as Togo) and Maude Cotton in Jonesville, Louisiana. Lige lived a life dedicated to faith, family, and service. He married Carolyn Wilks on July 19, 1951, in Ruston, LA, and they were happily married for 62 years. He was completely devoted to her, especially when her health failed late in her life.

Growing up he worked in the family grocery store and then at Sears while in college. His career began as a Reservation Supervisor for Delta Airlines, where he served with distinction for an impressive 36 years. He was initially assigned to the Baton Rouge office and as the company grew, he moved to Shreveport, LA then Jackson, MS and ultimately to Memphis, TN. He left a lasting mark on all the cities he worked in and the people he worked with. For years he did custom framing from home. He retired from Delta Airlines in 1993 and later moved to Hernando, MS. After the death of his wife in 2013 he moved to Cleveland, MS.

His favorite pastime was woodworking and carving. He also was an ardent supporter of the LSU Tigers and the New Orleans Saints. He enjoyed sports and shared that passion with his loved ones.

Lige's faith served as the foundation of every aspect of his life. He was deeply committed to his family, often prioritizing their needs above his own. Lige was a devoted member of Covenant Presbyterian Church, having many meaningful relationships and contributing to his community. His love for the Lord lead him to serve on a mission trip to Bolivia in the late 1970’s. While living in Jackson, MS, Lige and his family served as a foster family for many years. While living in Memphis he and his wife served at a Christian organization ministering to children and youth in the inner city. His gentle and quiet demeanor made him a beloved individual to all who knew him and throughout life he profoundly impacted many lives along the way.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Roland M. and Maude Cotton; his beloved wife, Carolyn Wilks Cotton; and his sons, Danny Paul Cotton and Kenneth Wilks Cotton.

Lige leaves behind a loving family, including his daughter, Laura Cotton Wood (Clint); son, Roger Cotton (Suzie); and his adoring grandchildren, Brittany Swain (Dru), Will Cotton, Alicen Carol Wood Thompson (Phoenix), Wilks Wood (Harrison), Anna Laura Wood, and Nathan Cotton. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Susan Swain, Jackson Swain, Sawyer Swain, Eva Dayton Thompson, Carolyn Grace Thompson, Ella Claire Thompson, Elijah Thompson, Jed Wood, and Crawford Wood. He is survived by his sisters, Wanda Mitchell and Elizabeth Williams (Steve), and his brother, Roland Cotton (Theresa); and many wonderful nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Lige Cotton's legacy of love, service, and commitment to the Lord and his family will be forever cherished in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. His presence will be deeply missed, yet the memories of his life will continue to inspire all who were touched by his gentle spirit.