Terri Lynn Cotton

Terri Lynn Cotton, 71, of Capitan, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026.

Terri was born on December 30, 1954, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, to William G. Cotton and Willa Lee Cotton, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by several lifelong friends who meant the world to her.

Terri is survived by her two sons, Justin Cotton and Brandon Cotton; her beloved grandchildren, Mathieu Jimenez, Andrew Cotton, and Zoe Zaragoza; her brother, William “Doug” Cotton; and her sister, Pamela Jeanne Dunn. She was a proud and devoted mother and grandmother, and her love for her family was the center of her life.

Terri had a vibrant spirit and a personality that could best be described as both strong and graceful—leather and lace. She was known for her resilience, her honesty, and her ability to make those around her feel safe, loved, and understood. She often reminded her sons, “I wasn’t very good at picking a man, but I know how to raise good men,” and she lived that truth every day.

A gifted writer and creative soul, Terri had a deep appreciation for art and self-expression. She attended barber college in the 1970s and later went on to open her own salon, Leather & Lace, where she built meaningful relationships and took pride in her work and her clients.

In her younger years, Terri was a rodeo queen and a true cowgirl at heart. She loved her horses and carried that independent, spirited nature with her throughout her life.

Terri found joy in the simple things—sharing meals with loved ones, enjoying her favorite foods like catfish, lobster, and her beloved red enchiladas with egg, and sipping on Dr. Pepper or sweet iced tea. She was known for making the best hamburgers and tacos her family had ever tasted.

She loved classic television shows like I Love Lucy and MASH*, and movies like Dirty Dancing. Music was always a part of her life, especially the voices of Stevie Nicks, Cher, and Elvis Presley—whom she adored. A special memory was visiting Graceland, where her excitement and joy left a lasting impression on those who were with her.

Terri had a playful and warm personality, a love for Betty Boop, and a smile that could light up a room. She had a way of making people feel welcome and valued, whether they were family, friends, or someone she had just met.

Though she did not attend church regularly, Terri had a strong personal faith. She believed in God, in prayer, and in something greater than herself, often taking quiet moments throughout the day to reflect and pray.

Above all, Terri will be remembered for her unconditional love. She created a safe place for her children and grandchildren—always there to listen, support, and guide with both compassion and strength.

A memorial service celebrating Terri’s life will be held at 1:00PM, Thursday, April 9, 2026, at LaGrone Funeral Chapel of Ruidoso. Immediately following the services, family and friends are invited to gather at Wingfield Park in Ruidoso for food and fellowship.

Terri’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the love she gave so freely, and the family she was so proud of. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.