Lois Janette Cottam

“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” Proverbs 31:30

Lois Janette Cottam, beloved wife, daughter, sister, aunt, teacher, friend, loved life and people to the fullest during her 55 years. Born in Clarksburg, West Virginia on October 21, 1961 to Bruce and Rella Wright, Lois was the oldest of four siblings, Doug, Greg and Gary, who preceded her in death at the age of two. Lois was a fun, loving, obedient child, who always looked out for her brothers.

The most important decision of her life occurred on Easter Sunday in 1977 when she trusted in Jesus Christ as her personal Savior, asking for forgiveness of her sins and turning her life over to Him. Never wavering from her desire to serve the Lord, Lois became a Christian schoolteacher and shaped the lives of many students, who in turn now serve the Lord around the world.

“She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.” Proverbs 31:26

Lois’ teaching career started at Bob Jones Elementary School in Greenville, SC in a 6th grade classroom and spanned the country to impact students in Salina, Salt Lake City and St. George, Utah. Her legacy and most impacting teaching role occurred from 1996 through May 2017 at Westside Christian School in St. George, where she had the vision to partner with Westside Baptist Church to train up the children of the church on a daily basis. Her godly influence was far reaching as she willingly taught any subject or grade necessary from kindergarten to 12th grade and never gave up on a student. She took many from below grade level and raised them high above normal expectations. Her strict standards produced students who can still hear her telling them to “walk with purpose,” and they well remember her admonition of “you are not allowed to … (think, say or act that way), but you must honor the Lord in all you do.”

“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm all the days of her life.” Proverbs 31:10-12

The second most important decision of her life happened on May 22, 1998 when she married KT Cottam. Each having waited on the Lord to marry the one He had for them, KT and Lois entered marriage with a deep appreciation and love for one another and a desire to serve the Lord. This became even more evident as they ministered together in music at First Southern Baptist Church of St. George for the last  several years and even as she battled Pancreatic cancer in the last 23 months of her life. Lois played the piano with great sensitivity and with a heart of worship. She was a talented vocal soloist and had a special gift of harmony. Her beautiful voice will be missed. “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” Proverbs 31:25

“She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.” Proverbs 31:20

In lieu of flowers, donations are requested for an endeavor that Lois started as a ministry to her fellow cancer patients. Hope Totes, which includes personal care items for those going through chemo, a blanket, and most importantly a Bible Promise book, will be maintained through First Southern Baptist Church. Memorial gifts can be made directly to the church at 326 S. 600 E. in St. George, UT 84770. Please designate any gift sent for this with Hope Totes.

“Her [loved ones] arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.” Proverbs 31:28

Lois leaves behind a grieving but blessed family: husband, KT, parents – Bruce and Rella Wright, her brothers and sisters-in-law – Doug & Kristy Wright, Greg & Merri Ellen Wright, nephews and nieces who adore her – Micah & Melanie, Brittany & Will, Rebekah, Caleb, Julia & Kyle, Gary, and Ryan, and a great niece, who carries her name – Rosamund Lois. In addition to her immediate family, many aunts, uncles and cousins, as well as friends and students will feel the void left by Lois’ death, but all who knew her well, know that she is in the presence of her Lord and Savior, worshipping and singing His praises in a body healed and whole, made perfect because of the love of God for her.

A funeral service, honoring Lois’ life will be at First Southern Baptist Church, 326 S. 600 E. in St. George, UT at 2:00 pm, on Saturday, September 24th. A graveside service at Tonaquint Cemetery will immediately follow.

The family will receive friends prior to the funeral service beginning at 1:00 pm.