Raymond Cotton

Raymond Cotton, 98, of North Port, Florida, formerly of Fulton, New York, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025.

Born in Fulton, he had resided in the Fulton-Oswego area most of his life, moving to North Port, Florida upon retirement. Ray started his career as a patrolman for the City of Fulton Police Department from 1954 to 1955. He then became a deputy with the Oswego County Sherriff’s department, appointed under-sheriff 1957 and then went on to serve 4 terms as Sheriff of Oswego County from 1963-1973.

Ray was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church of North Port Florida, was an Army Veteran of W.W.II and was an active member of various organizations: Retired member of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #1; Life member of the Oswego County Sheriff’s Benevolent Association; Member of NYS Sheriff’s Association; Member and Past Commander of VFW Post #8203 of North Port, FL.; Past District Commander of District #10; National Aide DeCamp to the National Commander 1986-87; Military Order of the Cootie, Pup Tent #72; Life member of the Past Commanders Club; Life member of the VFW National Children’s Home at Eaton Rapids, Michigan; American Legion Post #587 of North Port, FL.; Member of the Hiram Lodge #144 F.&A.M. of Fulton; Fulton Chapter #67 RAM; Fulton Council #50 Cryptic Masons; Lake Ontario Commandry #32 K.T.; Charter member of the North Port, FL Lodge #2632 B.P.O.E.; Member of the Loyal Order of Moose Lodge #764; Member of the Retired Public Employee Association.

Ray was predeceased by his parents William and Doris (Carney) Cotton and his devoted wife of 68 years, Shirley (Lewis) Cotton.

He is lovingly survived by his son, Gary (Tecia) Cotton of Oswego; His cherished Granddaughters, Erin (Richard) Hall and Chelsea (Patrick) Maniccia; His adored Great-Grandsons, Cashel and Ronan Hall and several nieces and nephews.

Ray was a humble man who never sought recognition, yet his quiet determination and deep sense of service left a lasting impact on many. He played a key role in advancing important causes, including working alongside Governor Nelson Rockefeller to help establish the Oswego County Sheriff’s Department pension system—an achievement that benefited countless officers and their families. He was actively involved in various political campaigns, always supporting leaders he believed could make a difference. Known for his generosity, he touched many lives through small favors, kind gestures, and his unwavering integrity. His legacy is one of quiet strength, meaningful action, and a heart devoted to others.

Calling hours are from 4pm – 6pm on Sunday, October 26th at Foster Funeral Home, 910 Fay Street in Fulton, NY. Services will be at 11 am on Monday, October 27 at the funeral home with burial to follow at Mt. Adnah Cemetery, East Broadway, Fulton. Memorial contributions may be made to the V.F.W. National Home for Children, 3573 South Waverly Road, Eaton Rapids, MI 48827. To leave a special message for the family, please sign the guestbook.