A celebration of Rusty’s life will be held with a visitation from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 12, 2021 at Cullen Funeral Home, 612 W. Foxwood Dr. Raymore, Missouri 64083.
Rusty was born in Kansas City, Missouri on January 1, 1964 to Russell Leon Cotton Sr. and Mary Elizabeth (James). He was raised in Raymore, Missouri through elementary school. His family then moved to Harrison County, where he attended junior high and high school, and started his law enforcement career. He was joined in marriage with his wife, Paula (Stowell) in Las Vegas, Nevada on July 4, 1996. Together they were blessed with two daughters. He completed his Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice at Missouri Western State University. For over thirty years, Rusty has served his community as a law enforcement officer, most recently serving with Metropolitan Community Colleges. Rusty was an avid fan of the Denver Broncos, the Kansas City Royals, and Garth Brooks. Earlier in life he enjoyed agriculture and hunting, and was a good marksman.
Rusty was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents, a maternal aunt, and a paternal uncle.
He leaves behind both of his parents: Russ Cotton of Branson, and Mary Ury of Blythedale; his loving wife, Paula Cotton; two daughters, Callista and Ryanna Cotton; brother, Rodney Cotton (Missie); many uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) online at www.concernsofpolicesurvivors.org
