Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory

01/08/2026

Brently Ray Herring, 56, passed away at his home on January 5, 2026. Born on April 21, 1969, in New Bern, North Carolina, Brent was known for his kindness, generosity, caring nature, and deep compassion. He touched the lives of everyone around him with a gentle spirit and a heart always ready to help others. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Celebrate the life of Brently Herring, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of Cotten Funeral Home.

01/08/2026

Hester Hogan Stallings, 88, of Carolina Pines in New Bern, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 4, 2026. A longtime member of the Carolina Pines Golf and Country Club, Hester was an accomplished golfer, proudly winning seven Women’s Championship titles during her years there. Beyond the greens, she had a deep love for beauty in all its forms. She delighted in shopping, interior design, and fashion, and had a special talent for making everything around her elegant and welcoming. A private ceremony will be held at a later date. Hester will be entombed at Forest Oaks Memorial Gardens in Havelock.

Celebrate the life of Hester Stallings, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of Cotten Funeral Home.

01/07/2026

From the very beginning, Linda was an avid animal lover and reader who was rarely found without a cat and a book nearby. She loved a good meal and to tell a story, especially if she was among those she loved most. Linda was generous with her time and attention, always thoughtful and caring for those in need.

Celebrate the life of Linda Swindell, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of Cotten Funeral Home.

01/07/2026

Margie H. Smedley, an adventurous and free-spirited soul, passed away on January 3, 2026, at the age of 90. Born on June 16, 1935, in Orrum, North Carolina, Margie spent most of her life in Swansboro, North Carolina, where she dedicated twenty-five years of service to the Onslow County School System where she was known as the “Ice Cream Lady” to many elementary school children.

Celebrate the life of Margie Smedley, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of Cotten Funeral Home.

01/07/2026

Corby William Rudy, 57, of Cove City, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at CarolinaEast Medical Center. Born and raised with a strong sense of duty, Corby served his country proudly as a member of the United States Marine Corps. Following his military service, he dedicated many years to his work as a train inspector for Frit Railroad in Bridgeton, where his keen eye and steady hand earned him respect among colleagues and friends. A Memorial Service with Military Honors will be held Sunday, January 11, 2026 at 2:30 pm at Kitt Swamp Christian Church, 320 Aurora Road, Ernul, North Carolina, 28527.

Celebrate the life of Corby Rudy, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of Cotten Funeral Home.

01/06/2026

Donald O'Neil Rouse, 71, passed away on January 3, 2026. He was born October 17, 1954, to the late Wesley and Maggie Rouse.

Celebrate the life of Donald Rouse, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of Cotten Funeral Home.

01/06/2026

Stephen proudly served in the United States Air Force, a reflection of his deep sense of duty and service to his country. He was a graduate of Atlantic Christian College and devoted more than 30 years to Aflac, where he was known for his dependability, integrity, and steady commitment.

Celebrate the life of Stephen Beaman, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of Cotten Funeral Home.

01/06/2026

A celebration of Julia’s life will be held on Thursday, January 8th at 1:00 pm at Cotten Funeral Home, New Bern, NC. The family will receive visitors from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. Following the service, interment will be at Greenleaf Memorial Park in New Bern, NC.

Celebrate the life of Julia Gaskins, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of Cotten Funeral Home.

01/06/2026

A celebration of Victor's life will be held on Friday, January 9th, 2026, at 2 pm at Centenary United Methodist Church, with a reception to follow in the church fellowship hall.

Celebrate the life of Victor Horrell, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of Cotten Funeral Home.

01/05/2026

Zinovy Sharf is remembered for his dedication to his work, his passion for sports, and his enduring spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of resilience and achievement that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Celebrate the life of Zinovy Sharf, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of Cotten Funeral Home.

01/02/2026

Charlene Gail Davis Block passed away on December 30, 2025, in Grantsboro, North Carolina.She was born on March 9, 1965, in New Bern, North Carolina, to William “Billy” Paul Davis Sr. and Dorothy “Dottie” Louise Pake Davis. Charlene, affectionately known as “Charlie” to her friends and family, lived life the way she wanted to, embracing adventure wherever it found her. Her life was marked by curiosity and adventure, with experiences ranging from serving as first mate on a charter boat to driving commercial trucks. She found joy in her animals, including her dogs, cats, and chickens. Above all else, she was the proud and loving mother to Alexander “Alex” Block, and she leaves a legacy of fun, passion, and warmth.

Celebrate the life of Charlene Block, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of Cotten Funeral Home.

01/01/2026

As we step into a new year, we pause to remember.

At Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory, the start of a new year is a time of reflection, hope, and remembrance. During our recent Season of Remembrance candlelight service, we were honored to gather with families we served in 2025, lighting candles, sharing quiet moments, and holding close the memories of those who will forever remain in our hearts.

Though the holidays may have passed, the message remains timeless:
love does not end, memories do not fade, and those we cherish are always with us.

As we move forward into the year ahead, we remain committed to walking beside our community with compassion, dignity, and care—honoring lives, supporting families, and remembering always.

From our family to yours, we wish you peace, comfort, and hope in the year ahead.