Jack Cottrell, age 90, peacefully departed this life on Sunday, October 12, 2025 at his home in London, Kentucky, surrounded by family.
Jack was born on August 15, 1935, in Manchester, KY, to James "Preacher" and Bertha Jones Cottrell.
After proudly serving his country in the United States Navy, Jack and his beloved wife Ruthie Gilbert Cottrell made their home in Hatboro Pennsylvania, where they lived and raised their children for over 25 years. Jack built a long and successful career, retiring as Vice President of the Philadelphia Rivet Company. Upon retirement, he returned to his roots in Kentucky.
Jack loved visiting friends and family. He was known as "Buffalo Chip" on his ham radio and enjoyed talking to his CB buddies, taking his dogs rabbit hunting, and going fishing. His outgoing character, stories, humor, and warm presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his six children:
Mark (Carolyn) Cottrell of East Bernstadt, KY, Susan (Colonel) Perovich of Ulysses, PA, John Cottrell of Manchester, KY, Sharon Mercure of Wilmington, DE, Wendy (Mark) Bishop of Somerset, KY and his youngest, Kevin Cottrell of London, KY, who cared for him tirelessly through his long illness, never leaving his side.
He also leaves behind eight grandchildren, his great grandchildren, his siblings Mildred Smith, Joan Reid, and Mac Cottrell, and a host of nephews, nieces and cousins.
Jack was preceded in death by his loving wife, Ruthie, his parents, and his siblings James "Hijacker" Cottrell, Lorraine Roberts, and Charles "Strawberry" Cottrell.
All services will be private. The family has trusted House-Rawlings Funeral Home with the arrange arrangements.
