Jeffrey Gerald Cotney

Jeffrey Gerald Cotney, a respected patriarch, esteemed husband, devoted brother, beloved son, adored uncle and cherished friend of Gillette, Wyoming, gracefully departed this life in the comforting embrace of his devoted family on February 21, 2024.

Jeff's journey began amidst the sun-kissed landscapes of Mesa, Arizona, on March 2, 1984, cradled in the tender care of his parents, Gerald Cotney and Barbara Houston. He shared his childhood with his dear brother, TJ Russell and his loyal sibling, Jerry Cotney.

Jeff's path led him to the quaint town of Sundance, Wyoming, where amidst the verdant hills, he encountered his high school sweetheart, Amber Tibbetts, who stole his heart. Their love blossomed, culminating in the joyous arrival of Hunter Jeffrey James Tibbetts on March 5, 2003, a beacon of light in their lives.

In a union steeped in romance, Jeff and Amber exchanged vows on January 20, 2005, amidst the serene beauty of Sundance. Their family expanded with the birth of Payton Timothy Douglas Cotney, gracing their home on September 19, 2006, completing their circle of love.

Yet, fate cast a shadow over Jeff's life on September 20, 2012, when he was confronted with the formidable adversary of Ewing Sarcoma. Undeterred by the daunting trials ahead, Jeff faced each day with unwavering courage, somehow finding the strength to balance his treatments with his commitment to Nelson's Auto Glass.

Across 12 tumultuous years, Jeff underwent a series of surgeries, displaying resilience in the face of adversity, a testament to his indomitable spirit. Amidst the sterile walls of Campbell County Health, Jeff found solace in stolen moments, slipping away from treatments to witness his son's baseball triumphs, a testament to his unwavering devotion.

A man of diverse passions, Jeff found joy in the simplicity of life's pleasures. Whether on the softball diamond or basketball court, amidst the tranquil serenity of Keyhole, or in the exhilarating realm of video games, Jeff's spirit soared. A fervent supporter of the 49ers, he reveled in the highs and lows of each game, his loyalty unwavering. Yet, his true delight lay in coaching his sons, Hunter and Payton, instilling in them values of discipline and perseverance, guiding them with unwavering dedication.

In the tender embrace of his cherished family, Jeff's legacy endures. He is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Amber Cotney, and his beloved sons, Hunter and Payton, a testament to the enduring bonds of family.

His memory is held dear by his father, Gerald Cotney, embraced by the warmth of Lisa Cotney's love, alongside "Pa" Mark and "Ma" Janet Potts, and his grandmother, Rose Cotney and Linda Gustafson. In the embrace of familial love, Jeff's spirit lives on, a beacon of light amidst the darkness.

Jeff's memory is enshrined in the hearts of his siblings, TJ Russell and Jerry (Cassie) Cotney; his sister, Sabrina (Alex) Edwards; and sister-in-law, Brooke Crystal. He is joined in eternal rest by his mother, Barbara Haar and step-father, Douglas Haar. Jeff is welcomed to the heavens by his grandfather, Donald Cotney and uncle Tim Land.

As the curtain falls on this earthly chapter, the Cotney family extends their heartfelt gratitude to those who offered support and solace during Jeff's valiant battle. To the compassionate souls who donated generously through Go Fund Me and Campco, and to the dedicated physicians and nurses at CCH ('Hepner Cancer Center) in Gillette and UC Health in Denver, the family offers profound gratitude.

Special appreciation is extended to Amber's colleagues at Campbell County Home Medical Resources, whose unwavering support provided strength in moments of fragility. In the embrace of community, Jeff's legacy lives on, a testament to the enduring power of love and solidarity.