Stella Cotnam

Stella Lovelia Queen Cotnam, 98, passed away at home on Tuesday, March 2, 2021. She was born April 28, 1922 in Cleveland County, NC to the late Luther and Sophia Lovelia Queen Queen.

She was preceded in death by her husband Rankin Paul Cotnam; 5 siblings; granddaughter Ashley Broome; great-grandson Justin Choate; and great-great granddaughter Mia Carter.

Stella was the oldest living member of Firestone Wesleyan Church, Gastonia, where she attended since the age of 9. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to many. Stella was a devoted prayer warrior who loved reading her Bible and memorizing the scriptures. She had great love for others, and everyone loved her. Stella retired from Wix after 35 years of service.

Left to cherish her memories are her children Joe “Lee” Cotnam (Sherry) of Belmont, Yeonette Ninneman (Larry) of Dallas, and Linda Belt (Bill) of Dallas; 10 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and 6 great-great-grandchildren.

She will lie in state from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM at Firestone Wesleyan Church on Friday, March 5, 2021.

Stella’s funeral service will be held 1:00 PM on Saturday, March 6, 2021 at Firestone Wesleyan Church with Pastor Don Avore and Rev. Tony Phillips, her grandson, officiating.

Interment will follow at Gaston Memorial Park.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made to Firestone Wesleyan Church 1700 Union Rd. Gastonia, NC 28054 or to Gaston Hospice, PO Box 3984, Gastonia, NC 28054.