Born in Charlotte, MI, he was a son of the late Elgin and Vida Fisher Cotton. He was retired from Lansing State Journal.
Surviving are: three sons, Melvin Cotton, Jr., of Belding, MI, Todd Cotton of Charlotte, MI, and Matthew Cotton of Hudson, Fl; his daughter, Tonya Wehr of the home; two sisters, Elizabeth Wheaton and Patricia Burley, eleven grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.
Mr. Cotton is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, two brothers, Wallace Cotton and Lynwood Cotton, and a sister, Shirley Cotton.
No local services are planned. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.ParkerWhitePruitt.com