Nancy L. Cotton, Active Member of Free Methodist Churches, Dies at 80

Nancy L. Cotton, a devoted member of several Wesleyan-Holiness churches, passed away on September 17, 2026, at her home in Ilion, New York, with her husband, Jim, by her side. She was 80 years old. Born on February 27, 1946, in Ilion, Nancy was the daughter of Earl and Victoria (Boyer) Brewer. She attended local schools and later became a key figure in the Scotch Bush Free Methodist Church in St. Johnsville, NY, and the Herkimer Free Methodist Church in Oak Ridge, where she served as Conference Youth Director and participated in Women’s groups and Sunday School.

Throughout her career, Nancy held various roles, including store manager at Woolworths in Herkimer and manager of the jewelry department at Montgomery Wards in Utica. She later became the owner and operator of Chateau Boutique in New Hartford. Her professional life was marked by dedication and service, much like her involvement in church activities, where she was known for her active participation and community engagement.

Nancy was a devoted family woman, cherished by her husband, Jim, and her three children: Robert “Bob” Cotton and his wife Heather, Brenda Parker, and Beth Tannatt. She was also a loving grandmother to eight grandchildren and a great-grandmother to two great-granddaughters. Her extended family included her sister Ellie Newberry, three brothers, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by her parents, two sisters, and one brother.

Nancy’s legacy of service and community involvement was honored with a visitation and funeral service in her hometown. A visitation was held on September 25, 2026, followed by funeral services at the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home. A graveside service was held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Herkimer. Her family and friends gathered to celebrate her life and contributions, reflecting the values of care, community, and faith that defined her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions were directed to the Scotch Bush Free Methodist Church, underscoring her commitment to her faith community. Her service arrangements were handled by Don Applegate, her family funeral director and longtime friend, at Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home. Nancy’s life and work exemplified the principles of neighbor-love and service, echoing the biblical call to care for others and live with integrity.

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