John Truman Cottrell

John Truman Cottrell, 85, passed peacefully into the arms of our Lord Jesus on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, after a blessed and long life. He was born November 13, 1940, in Ramsey, West Virginia, the eldest of four children of the late Ronzel Lawrence and Irene Elizabeth Cottrell.

Although a native of wild, wonderful West Virginia, John and his beloved wife, Charlotte Ruth, moved to Indianapolis, Indiana the day after their eventful wedding on July 12, 1964, where they built a life together filled with love and family.

John loved the Lord Jesus and faithfully served Him as a member of Valley Mills Christian Church since 1972. There he assisted with building programs, served as an usher and greeter, and played the Fonz in a Valentine’s play.

John and Charlotte were raised in the same holler in Ramsey, West Virginia. They began dating in 1961 while John was serving in the United States Army. When he came home on furlough, their dates often consisted of sitting together on the front porch swing—“just swinging”—surrounded by her six brothers and sisters, many cousins, and always centered around church and family.

John is lovingly remembered by his wife, Charlotte Ruth Cottrell; his son, Timothy Kent Cottrell, and daughter-in-law, Jennifer Jo Cottrell, of Plainfield, Indiana.

He was a proud grandfather to Christopher Shamblin and Michelle Rose Banta of Franklin, Indiana; Jeffrey Bryan and Angel Nichole Cottrell of Mooresville, Indiana; and Alysia Marie Banta of Plainfield, Indiana, as well as 11 cherished great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his sister Margaret Lynn, Pastor Leon Brown, brother-in-love Wade Lowers, and a host of nieces, nephews, family members, and dear friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Larry Cottrell; and his sister, Roselea Ethel Lowers.

John graduated from Ansted High School in Ansted, West Virginia, in 1960. He served honorably in the United States Army from 1961 to 1964. Upon his discharge, he moved to Indianapolis on a Sunday and was blessed with a job the very next day at Bridgeport Brass (later Olin Brass), where he faithfully worked for over 39 years before retiring.

John loved sports and played softball on the community team in Ramsey, West Virginia, on the Valley Mills Christian Church team, and on his workplace team. In his youth, he served as president of the Baptist Youth Fellowship (BYF) and was also involved in the Boy Scouts. Later, he enjoyed being involved with his son in the Indiana Guides, Cub Scouts, and football, where he was known for his willingness to help with anything that was needed.

In recent years, one of John’s greatest joys was assisting his son on many building projects.

John and Charlotte shared a remarkable gift of hospitality. Through the years, they opened their home to many family members and friends, welcoming them to stay until they were able to find work and get back on their feet.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Noon at Valley Mills Christian Church, 5555 Kentucky Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46221, on Saturday, March 14, 2026. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. John will be laid to rest following the service at West Newton Cemetery. 6701 Milton Street, Indianapolis, IN.