[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 95 (Friday, June 3, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E573]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF LT. JIMMY ``COTTON'' McCOY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. TRENT KELLY

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 3, 2022

  Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate 
the life and service of Lt. Jimmy L. ``Cotton'' McCoy, Retd., a 
decorated veteran of the Vietnam War who folded his earthly tent and 
transformed to eternal rest on Monday morning, May 23, 2022, after a 
period of declining health. Cotton, as he was universally known, was 
born the third of six children to Noel and Katie Putt McCoy. Growing up 
on Canal St. in east Tupelo, he attended Lawhon School, graduated from 
Tupelo High School in 1965 and attended ICC for two years.
  Cotton answered the call of his country and served in the U.S. Army 
during the heart of the Vietnam War. He was a mortar man with the 173rd 
Airborne Division and a paratrooper. For his bravery and courage, he 
received many medals including the Bronze Star--declining a Purple 
Heart because he felt others deserved it more than he. Determined to 
continue in public service, Cotton graduated from the Miss. Law 
Enforcement Academy and became a police officer for the City of Tupelo. 
For 35 years, Cotton became a beloved figure among the citizens as a 
motorcycle cop and street patrolman. He always tempered justice with 
mercy whenever possible and was a strong mentor/teacher for many young 
people who just needed a steady force and guidance to get back on track 
in life.
  Cotton retired in 2006 with the rank of Lieutenant. A great southern 
storyteller, Cotton endeared himself to family and friends with his 
yams and clever personality. He never met a stranger and loved being a 
citizen of Tupelo and Lee County. Cotton was a lifelong member of the 
East Heights Baptist Church, a Mason and Shriner, an avid gardener and 
gun collector.
  Cotton was a dedicated servant of God, country, and state. My prayers 
will be with those mourning his loss.

                          ____________________