Steven Cotton

Steven Neal Cotton

February 6, 1954 – September 1, 2025

With profound sadness and loving remembrance, the family of Steven Neal Cotton announces

his passing after a long, courageous, and well-fought battle with Parkinson’s disease. Steve died

peacefully in South Carolina on September 1, 2025, surrounded by family and friends.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Steve grew up in Winnetka with his two brothers. He attended New

Trier High School in Northfield and went on to graduate from Roosevelt University with a

degree in Hospitality. Steve built a distinguished career in hotel management, traveling the world

and enriching the lives of those he met along the way.

A lifelong tennis enthusiast, Steve’s passion for the game never wavered. He won championships

in his youth and continued to play as long as possible. Tennis was more than a sport to him—it

was a way of building friendships, community, and joy. Those who knew him will remember his

sharp wit, warm smile, and his love of starting new friendships on the court.

Steve was also a devoted Chicago sports fan. Despite being raised by White Sox parents, he

remained steadfastly loyal to the Chicago Cubs, reveled in the glory days of the Jordan-era Bulls,

and faithfully—though often heartbreakingly—cheered for the Chicago Bears.

After his passing, we imagine Steve first sought out his mother, Nancy Cotton, then shared a

long-awaited reunion with his son Peyton, where they caught up and re-bonded. For the rest of

eternity, we picture Steve discovering new clay and grass courts in Heaven, playing his best

tennis, and keeping a loving eye on his family, especially his wife and love of his life, Darlene.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife, Darlene Cotton; his son, Drayton Ellman (Emily) and

grandson, Brooks; his father, Bruce Cotton; and his brothers, Andy and Keith Cotton.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude

to Steve’s devoted caregivers and to VIA Hospice for their compassion and support.

In accordance with his wishes, Steve’s ashes will be spread at the Wimbledon Championships

Tennis Court in Wimbledon, UK—a fitting tribute to his lifelong love of the game.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for

Parkinson’s Research, in honor of Steve’s determined fight and his enduring hope for others.