Sheriff’s Office Mourns the Passing of Former Sheriff Cotton

by Contributor | October 21, 2025 11:35 am

OSWEGO – The Oswego County Sheriff’s Office is saddened to announce the passing of former Sheriff Raymond Cotton who faithfully served our community and law enforcement family for over eighteen years before his retirement in 1973. Sheriff Cotton passed away in North Port, FL on Thursday, October 16 at the age of 98. He was predeceased by his wife Shirley, who also served Oswego County Sheriff’s Office as a Matron at the Jail and Special Deputy.

Sheriff Cotton began his law enforcement career at Fulton Police Department and joined Oswego County Sheriff’s Office on New Year’s Day in 1955, rising through the ranks to serve as Undersheriff from 1960 to 1963 and then as sheriff for another 10 years. He played a key role in advancing important causes, including working alongside Governor Rockefeller to help establish the Oswego County Sheriff’s Department pension system—an achievement that benefited countless officers and their families.

After his retirement in 1973, Sheriff Cotton remained active in the community as a member of the Oswego County Republican Committee and the NYS Sheriff’s Association (among many other associations and organizations) and will be remembered for his dedication, integrity, and mentorship to many who followed in his footsteps.

“Sheriff Cotton left a lasting impact on our department and the community he served,” said Sheriff Don Hilton. “His leadership, character, and lifelong commitment to public safety will never be forgotten.”

Calling hours will be held at Foster Funeral Home in Fulton, NY on Sunday, October 26 from 4 – 6 p.m. and services will be held Monday at 11:00 a.m. with burial following at Mt. Adnah Cemetery.  The Oswego County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to the Cotton family and all who knew and served alongside him.

About Oswego County Sheriff’s Office: Oswego County Sheriff’s Office is committed to providing for the peace and security of all residents and visitors in Oswego County. The law enforcement division includes road patrol, civil, court security, marine and snowmobile patrol, and criminal investigation division. County-wide coverage includes patrolling 968 square miles, eastern Lake Ontario and Oneida Lake. We also operate a state-of-the-art direct supervision correctional facility. For non-emergencies, contact Oswego County Sheriff’s Office at 315-349-3411 or visit www.oswegocounty.com/sheriff[1].

Source URL: https://oswegocountytoday.com/news/sheriffs-office-mourns-the-passing-of-former-sheriff-cotton/

---