WINNSBORO: On Dec. 2, 2012, Edward Harley “Cotton” Lathan, age 80, passed from this world to walk on the streets of gold in Heaven with the Lord. Born on March 10, 1932, he was the loving son of late Carl and Carrie Bland Lathan. He was predeceased by his sister, Carleen Boinest.
“Cotton” graduated from Mt. Zion Institute in Winnsboro, S.C. in 1952. He proudly played football at the position of half-back and also played baseball. “Cotton” often referred to his time playing football in high school as his “glory days.” Shortly after graduation, he joined the U.S. Army to serve in the Korean Conflict. Some of his favorite deployments included Japan and Europe. He retired from the U.S. military as Staff Sergeant after 23 years of service. During his service in the military, he also worked for the S.C. Department of Employment Security Commission as an auditor and retired from there after 24 years of service.
“Cotton” lived a full life and is well known for his hobbies of gold prospecting, renovating houses and furthering his education. He loved bluegrass music and was often seen dancing away at the Blackstock Bluegrass gatherings. He was an example of charity and was well loved by many.
“Cotton” leaves behind five children: Elaine (Jeff) Netzley, Terri (Ricky) Varn, Debra (Eddie) Ginn, Carlton “Rusty” Lathan and Krystel (Jonathan) Martin. He had eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his special friends and companions, William and Janice Self.
A graveside service will be held on Thursday, Dec. 6, 2012 at 2 p.m. at Mt. Olivet Presbyterian Church. The family will receive friends at Pope Funeral Home from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday.
Pope Funeral Home is serving the Lathan family.
Online condolences may be sent to the Lathan family at www.popefuneralhomesc.com.
