Clarine (Hughes) 'Pig'/'Red' Cotton

Clarine Hughes Cotton became a light in this world on Wednesday, February 5th, 1936, and gently joined the angels on Friday, April 10th, 2026, at the age of 90. Affectionately known to many as “Pig” or “Red,” she was born in Jackson, North Carolina, to the late Isaac and Mary Jane Hughes. She was the fifth of nine children born to their loving union and received her education through the Northampton County School District.

On September 22nd, 1952, Clarine was united in Holy Matrimony, Wilbert “Red” Cotton. They remained married until his passing. More than seventy years ago, she relocated from Jackson to New York City, where she made her home in Harlem and embraced a new chapter of life. During her years in New York, Clarine held several positions, with Supreme Sample Card becoming her longest and final place of employment before her retirement in 1998. It was also during this time that she earned the nickname “Red,” a reflection of her vibrant red hair and spirited presence.

Clarine possessed a remarkable gift with numbers, handling them with a natural skill that far surpassed her years of formal education. Her home radiated warmth, love, and togetherness. Though space was often limited, it never prevented family from gathering. “Pig’s house” became the heart of family connection—a welcoming place where everyone felt they belonged.

In her later years, when no immediate family lived nearby, her devoted nephew, Stanley Hughes, faithfully visited her each week, caring for her with the same love and dedication he would his own mother.

On Friday, April 10th, 2026, Clarine peacefully took her final breath following a long and courageous battle with dementia. As we reflect on her life, we are reminded that the pain of losing someone we love is the price we pay for the privilege of having shared in that love.

Clarine leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Linda Ann Cotton of Jackson, North Carolina; her grandchildren, Geminie Cooper (Moreese), Brandon Cotton of Knightdale, North Carolina, Cordero Cotton of Jackson, North Carolina, and Crystal Cotton of Houston, Texas; her siblings, Melinda Gary of East Point, Georgia, Jacob Hughes of Raleigh, North Carolina, and Tony Hughes of Jackson, North Carolina; her beloved nephew, Stanley Hughes of New York; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

In addition to her parents and her husband, Clarine was preceded in death by her siblings: J. P. Hughes, Isaac “Billy” Hughes Jr., Carrie Motley, Richardean Hughes, and Lewis Hughes.

Though she has departed this life, her love, legacy, and memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and cherished her.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mrs. Cotton's tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

The Caring Team of T. L. Faison's Funeral Care, LLC is privileged to provide

"Professional Care, With Dignity & Integrity" 

to the family of Mrs. Clarine Hughes Cotton.

We ask that you unite with us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Clarine (Hughes) 'Pig'/'Red' Cotton, please visit our floral store.