Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with the family present to greet friends from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Cotton was born on February 11, 1933, in Bokoshe, Oklahoma, to Mollie (Poteet) Hale and William Hale. He passed away on May 14, 2025, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He married the love of his life, Snodine, on June 15, 1957, in Stigler, Oklahoma, and together they shared nearly 68 years of marriage.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Kenneth Hale, Haskell Hale, Lloyd Hale, and Garvin “Mousie” Hale; and his sisters, Imogene Harris, Marie Real, Evelyn Minor, and Bernice Hale.
Cotton was a proud veteran of the United States Army and a retired fireman from the Panama Fire Department. He was well known in the community as the longtime owner and operator of Cotton Drive Inn in Panama, where he and his wife served hamburgers for 28 years. He had a legendary way with people and a great love for his family. His grandchildren never left his home without a five-dollar bill in hand—a small token of his endless affection.
Cotton had a sharp wit and a mischievous streak, often described as a little “onery,” but always a great man with a heart of gold. He enjoyed playing the slot machines, dominos, and cards. He could often be found in the mornings at the local coffee shop, sharing stories and laughs.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Snodine Hale; son, Larry Hale and wife Sheila; daughter, Sissy Tackett and husband Rick; grandchildren, Trina Morris and husband Jason, Justin Cox and wife Kayla, Chelsey Hale, Jason Cox and wife Skylar; and great-grandchildren, Jaycie Cox, Bryce Cox, Payton Morris, Charlie Hale, Sadie McDuffy, Viktor Cox, Charlotte Cox, Livvy Cox, Gavin McClendon, Reylen Sweeten, and Sadie Sweeten. He is also survived by his brother, Carl Hale, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.
Pallbearers will be Justin Cox, Jason Cox, Jason Morris, Bimbo Hale, Jason Cloud, and Ryan Emerson.
Online condolences may be left at www.MalloryMartinFuneralHomeSpiro.com.
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