Garldine Cottongim

Garldine (Pauley) Cottongim, 87 years old, passed away peacefully at her home in Taylor, Michigan with her loving family by her side

Geri was born October 25, 1938 in Wharton, West Virginia to Herman and Artie (Wilcoxin) Pauley But on August 15, 1944 Geri, her momma and 4 siblings left their mountain, coal mining town. as many southerners did at that time, and they journeyed to Detroit by train. They were extremely limited to what possessions they could bring with them, as they embarked on their new life in "The North", but Geri made sure she packed her which she proudly carried with her the rest of her life

On February 2, 1957, Geri  married the love of her life, Kenneth Cottongim. They were married in a double wedding ceremony shared with Kenneth's sister, Phyllis, and her husband, Bill. The two brides wore matching wedding dresses and had matching wedding cakes, making the celebration an extremely memorable occasion.

Geri enjoyed going to church, listening to Southern gospel music, and she cherished meeting each month with her Prayer Group, as they shared the scriptures, prayers, and delicious meals together

Those who knew Geri, will remember her joy in celebrating the holidays, and decorating her home for each one. Simple decorations brought her much happiness, and her home always gave everyone a glimpse of the holiday coming next. Birthdays were another day Celebration. If there was cake, ice cream, and a bag of Lay's potato chips, Geri would supply the candles and callit a Party!

Keeping her Southern Roots close to her heart, she loved eating and serving up a pot of soup beans flavored with a hambone, and served with cast iron cornbread. Or perhaps some hot biscuits smothered in sausage gravy. She especially enjoyed serving up these homecooked meals to her family and friends. Sitting around her kitchen table, sipping on a cup of coffee, was definitely her place of comfort.

Geri was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth on June 28, 2026. She is survived by her daughter Linda (Gerald) Frandsen-Windells, her sons, Clyde Cottongim, Jeffrey (Dawn) Cottongim, and Kenneth (Jayme) Cottongim. She is also survived by 9 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild, and 1 much loved furry feline, named Smoky.

Geri will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 from 2:00 p.m to 8:00 p.m. at the Allen Park Chapel of The Martenson Family of Funeral Homes located at 10915 Allen Road, Allen Park, MI 48101. The service will be held on the same day at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. 

Please visit Geri's online guestbook to share memories and leave condolences for her family.