In Memory

Lee Cotnam

Lee Cotnam

Lee Cotnam Obituary

Joe “Lee” Cotnam, born on March 14, 1942, in Gastonia, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home in Belmont, North Carolina, on January 25, 2025. He was preceded in death by his loving parents Rankin Paul Cotnam and Stella Lovelia Queen Cotnam, and his Grandson, Justin Choate.

Lee was a devoted husband to Sherry Burdette Cotnam and a loving father to his children: Marc Cotnam (Nancy), Amy Choate (John), Todd Auten (Tabitha), and Gina Auten Hicks (Scott). He was also a proud grandfather to Luke, Sarah, Laura, Zack, Lindsey, Hunter, Cody, Kasey, Maxwell, Emerson, and Ada, as well as a cherished great-grandfather to Cole, Cale, and Gabriel. 

Growing up in Gastonia alongside his sisters, Linda Cotnam Belt and Yeonette Cotnam Ninneman, Lee developed a deep love for family that remained central throughout his life. He found immense joy in the company of his children and grandchildren and had a special fondness for his dogs and the stray cats he cared for with compassion. Lee’s faith was a guiding light in his life. He loved serving God and brought warmth and kindness to all who knew him. 

Known for his generous heart—perhaps made even warmer by his affection for cozy robes and fuzzy blankets—Lee left an indelible mark on those around him. May the memory of Joe Lee Cotnam bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know him. 

The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 1st at Cornerstone Family Worship in Mount Holly, North Carolina, at 1:00 PM, and a Celebration of Life will follow at 2:00 PM also at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Cornerstone Family Worship in Lee's memory.

 



 
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01/25/25 05:46 PM #1    

Mickey Blackwell

I grew up with Joe Lee Cotnam in East Gastonia and attended grade school and church with him. Lee was a friend who I could count on for fun and confidentiality.  He will be greatly missed by his friends--especially me...Mickey Blackwell 


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