Roll Call Tribute

Our beloved Gary Cottingham passed away peacefully in Austin, Texas on December 20th, 2019 at the age of 71 years old. Gary’s family, friends, colleagues and the Austin community will remember him as passionate, gracious, happy, educated, loving, and down right fun.

Gary was the third born to Billy and Reinette Cottingham on October 16th, 1948 in San Antonio, Texas. He had a rich childhood surrounded by love with his brother Ronald Cottingham, sisters Claudia Bush and Reinette Miller and his life-long best friend Donnie Anz. Gary’s family was blessed with a vibrant home that was welcoming and full of love.

After graduating with a business degree he opened Fantasia Records in Arlington, Texas in October of 1971 that he owned for over 20 years. Anyone who knows Gary, knows his love and passion for music. This business was a source of community for Gary where he met many of his friends and the love of his life, Cynthia (Laybourn) Cottingham.

Gary and Cynthia were married on September 1st, 1979 in Arlington, Texas. They had their eldest daughter, Meredith, in 1983 followed by their youngest daughter, Natalie, in 1987. The four of them moved to Austin, Texas in 1992 to participate in the musical and cultural transformation of the city where Gary lived for the rest of his life. Gary was a die-hard Aggie from Texas A&M which he made clear to everyone living in Austin, surrounded by Longhorns during football season. He loved sharing the city with his family; seeing live music at the Saxon Pub and enjoying all of the incredible restaurants the city had to
offer. If you asked him for food recommendations, he could give you a list but Fonda San Miguel was always at the top and where we celebrated his 70th birthday. Although Gary was social his favorite place was in his home with his girls and son-in-laws. In 2016 Gary took on his favorite
role by becoming a Grandfather and best buddy to Tenley Krause.

He is preceded in death by his father, Billy Frank Cottingham, and his brother Ronald Robert Cottingham. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Cynthia Cottingham; with their two daughters Meredith Krause and Natalie Stambro; two son-in-laws Blake Krause and Christopher Stambro;
one grandchild Tenley Krause; his mother Reinette (Heidi) Cottingham; and two sisters Claudia Bush and Reinette (Cott) Miller.

“Life is good. Y’all have fun. I’ll see you when you get back. Okie dokie? I love you.” Gary’s last words

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Gary’s name to Austin’s Christopher House where Gary received extraordinary care in his final hours.

https://www.hospiceaustin.org/get-involved-2/donate/