Albert William Cothran

In Loving Memory of Albert William Cothran

Albert William Cothran, a devoted husband, father, and man of unwavering faith, departed from this world on Saturday, September 16, 2023, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was born on March 31, 1932, in Wapanucka, Oklahoma, to proud parents, John and Della Cothran.

At the tender age of 13, Albert dedicated his heart to the Lord in 1945. Later, on May 2, 1953, he embarked on a lifelong journey with his beloved Ruby Mae Cook in holy matrimony. Albert's sense of duty extended to his nation as he served honorably in the army during the Korean War, receiving an honorable discharge in November 1954.

Upon their move to Tulsa in 1954, Albert and Ruby became active members of the West Tulsa Church of God. Following the tragic fire at their church, they purchased a lot at 46th and Tacoma, where they built Highland Church of God. In 1966, they opened the doors to their new place of worship. Albert served his congregation for many years on the Board and as Sunday School Superintendent. His passion for the Lord was evident in every facet of his life, and he was dedicated to witnessing and winning souls for the Lord. Albert and Ruby were also known for their active involvement in fundraising for the church and providing funds to ensure children could attend summer church camps.

Albert was a devoted family man, actively participating in the lives of his children, attending church events, school activities, and sporting events. He cherished family camping trips, relishing campfires, fishing, and the outdoors. His tradition of gathering around the campfire, coffee pot in hand, became a cherished memory for generations. In 1986, these camping trips resumed and continued to this day. Albert's greatest delight during these outings was organizing the Cothran Camping Cornhole Tournaments, which brought together a community of 60-70 people.

Throughout his life, Albert wore many hats. He worked as a skilled tile installer, a barber, and spent over 30 years in sales at Sears before retiring. Later, he worked another 12 years at Dillards. Around 1970, Albert earned his Real Estate license, later becoming a broker and establishing his own business as a General Contractor, building homes.

After his second retirement, Albert found joy in serving as a school crossing guard for 19 years. He cherished the interactions with the children and made a positive impact on their lives every day.

Albert's life was a blend of humor, mischievousness, and unwavering faith. He was known for his sense of humor and, at times, being a little ornery. However, his devotion to the Lord was unwavering. Prayer and reading God's word were integral to his daily life. His heartfelt prayers were a testament to his deep connection with the Lord and will be sorely missed.

Albert was reunited in the afterlife with his parents, John and Della, his loving wife of 67 years, Ruby, his sons Albert Gerald and John Wendell, his daughter Lafonda Carol, and great-granddaughter Phoenix Skye.

Albert is survived by his sons Dwayne and Vinda, Clay and Angie, and Al Jr. and Paula, along with 16 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

A visitation to celebrate Albert's life will be held from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at Schaudt Glenpool-Bixby Funeral Service.

A funeral service will take place at 10:00 AM at Freedom Life Church (4605 S. Tacoma, Tulsa, OK 74107), followed by a burial ceremony at Rose Hill Cemetery in Wapanucka, Oklahoma, around 3:00 PM.

In remembrance of Albert's life, the family kindly requests that you join them in honoring his memory. Albert's legacy of faith, family, and camaraderie will continue to live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in eternal peace, reunited with his loved ones in the presence of the Lord.