Beloved Educator and Pastor’s Wife Rebecca Cottingham Passes Away at 97
Rebecca Chancellor Cottingham, a beloved pastor’s wife and dedicated educator, passed away on October 1, 2026, at the age of 97. She spent over 60 years supporting her husband, Rev. Russell Cottingham, in his pastoral work and continued to share her knowledge by teaching reading to both children and adults even after retiring from formal teaching.
Known for her generosity, Rebecca often baked cakes for friends and neighbors, a tradition she maintained well into her later years. Her kindness extended beyond her immediate community, as she was survived by a large family, including her son Ronnie Cottingham, daughter Rosilind Worrell, six granddaughters, and nine great-granddaughters and great-great-granddaughters.
Visitation for Rebecca will be held on Monday, October 5, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Ellisville Funeral Home, with the funeral service following at 11 a.m. at the same location. Burial will take place at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Laurel, with Dr. Lee Merck and Dr. David Williamson officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to Mission Dignity, a program supporting retired pastors and their families.