Obituary for Alfonso Lamonte "Fonso" Cotten
FISHKILL - Alfonso Lamonte Cotten, 36, a lifelong area resident of Dutchess County, was called home on September 19, 2022.
Alfonso Lamonte Cotten was born on a hot day in July 1986. He was a kind, loving comedian who touched many people’s lives. He was free with his knowledge and his very strong opinions on social issues. He graduated from Roy C. Ketcham High School and wanted to be a psychologist when he grew up, however, God had a different plan for his life. He moved down South to be closer to his daughter, the apple of his eye, as well as his twin. When you looked at her, you saw him. He spent many years in the restaurant business, often talking of owning his own restaurant. He always had a way of convincing you it was the best idea ever! His life took another turn and he found himself in the construction business, specializing in roofing in the Carolinas. Later he made his way back to New York where he could be closer to his family and friends. He developed a fondness for house construction as roofing wasn't as plentiful. You would often find him posting pictures of recent home projects that would show how proud he was of his work. He worked hard, often 6 days a week on different projects and dreamed of owning his own business. Alfonso loved children, and always wanted more; and often impacted children in positive ways, leaving them with a strong discipline laced with layers of love. All who have been blessed with knowing Fonso have been left with a smile on their face from a smile that just lit up a room.
Alfonso leaves behind his beloved mother, FaLisia Cotten and her husband Darin Swain; his father, Claude Melvin; his loving sisters, Shetara and Justice Melvin; his two nieces, Mia and Stellyna; Priscilla Sanchez, the mother of his beautiful daughter, Gabriella Leonor Cotten. He also leaves to mourn his son, Alfonso Cotten Jr.; and his brother from another mother, Clyde Hodge Jr. Additionally, he leaves a host of aunts and uncles, cousins, and a myriad of friends both near and far. He was predeceased by his grandmother, Stellina Felder.
An angel taken too soon … Fonso, there was so much more for you to do and see. We know you are finally dancing and cracking jokes with grandma and all her angels. Rest your head, my son, for all your troubles are washed away. Until we are joined together again, be your best self as we know you will be. We love and miss you so much.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, September 26 from 10am-11 am at Beulah Baptist Church, 92 Catherine Street, Poughkeepsie. There will be a funeral service at 11am.
Memorial donations may be made to the Alfonso Lamonte Cotten Scholarship Fund that is being established to assist high school students attending college and/or trade schools.
Arrangements are under the direction of the McHoul Funeral Home of Fishkill, Inc., 1089 Main Street, Fishkill, NY 12524. For online tributes, you can visit Alfonso’s Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.
Alfonso Lamonte Cotten was born on a hot day in July 1986. He was a kind, loving comedian who touched many people’s lives. He was free with his knowledge and his very strong opinions on social issues. He graduated from Roy C. Ketcham High School and wanted to be a psychologist when he grew up, however, God had a different plan for his life. He moved down South to be closer to his daughter, the apple of his eye, as well as his twin. When you looked at her, you saw him. He spent many years in the restaurant business, often talking of owning his own restaurant. He always had a way of convincing you it was the best idea ever! His life took another turn and he found himself in the construction business, specializing in roofing in the Carolinas. Later he made his way back to New York where he could be closer to his family and friends. He developed a fondness for house construction as roofing wasn't as plentiful. You would often find him posting pictures of recent home projects that would show how proud he was of his work. He worked hard, often 6 days a week on different projects and dreamed of owning his own business. Alfonso loved children, and always wanted more; and often impacted children in positive ways, leaving them with a strong discipline laced with layers of love. All who have been blessed with knowing Fonso have been left with a smile on their face from a smile that just lit up a room.
Alfonso leaves behind his beloved mother, FaLisia Cotten and her husband Darin Swain; his father, Claude Melvin; his loving sisters, Shetara and Justice Melvin; his two nieces, Mia and Stellyna; Priscilla Sanchez, the mother of his beautiful daughter, Gabriella Leonor Cotten. He also leaves to mourn his son, Alfonso Cotten Jr.; and his brother from another mother, Clyde Hodge Jr. Additionally, he leaves a host of aunts and uncles, cousins, and a myriad of friends both near and far. He was predeceased by his grandmother, Stellina Felder.
An angel taken too soon … Fonso, there was so much more for you to do and see. We know you are finally dancing and cracking jokes with grandma and all her angels. Rest your head, my son, for all your troubles are washed away. Until we are joined together again, be your best self as we know you will be. We love and miss you so much.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, September 26 from 10am-11 am at Beulah Baptist Church, 92 Catherine Street, Poughkeepsie. There will be a funeral service at 11am.
Memorial donations may be made to the Alfonso Lamonte Cotten Scholarship Fund that is being established to assist high school students attending college and/or trade schools.
Arrangements are under the direction of the McHoul Funeral Home of Fishkill, Inc., 1089 Main Street, Fishkill, NY 12524. For online tributes, you can visit Alfonso’s Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.