Mary Cotta, 85, was born in Irvington,CA on February 13, 1931 to Manuel and Virginia Brandao, the fifth of six children. They later moved to Oakland, then settled on their dairy in Los Banos in the early 1940's.
In 1968, Mary married the love of her life, Lloyd Cotta, and together raised Frank, Gail and Ty. They were the perfect team and were both very active in the community. She was by Lloyd's side in all of his endeavors and shared his love of sports and Holsteins. Each year she decorated the arena at the May Day Fair and could be found ringside watching the young dairy exhibitors show their animals.
Mary loved entertaining and decorating, especially at Christmas. At one point, 37 Christmas trees were counted sprinkled throughout her house. Family was a priority for her and she made each family member feel like they were her favorite. Her home was the heart of our family. We were blessed to gather at Mary's home sharing stories, delicious food and laughter on many holidays throughout the years. Mary also loved to cook, garden, and crochet. She made beautiful baby blankets for all her family and friends.
Mary was a member of the Altar Society and enjoyed going to Golden Agers with her friends.
Mary is survived by daughter, Gail Dyer, son Frank Rocha and Ty Cotta (Audra); step-children Ron Rocha (Rona) and Darlene Ford (Robert); sisters Lee Geller and Mable Reed (Don), grandchildren Whitney Ellis (Dave), Vanessa Tolley (Matt), Ted and Frank Rocha, Wyatt and Garett Cotta; great-grandchildren Ryker and Kynsi Tolley, Carter and Ruby Ellis, many nieces and nephews.
She preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd, her parents, sister Val Ciuffo, brothers Gil and David Brandon and son-in-law Dennis Dyer.
A visitation will be held on Monday, September 12, 2016 from 5:00-7:00 p.m.; rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m. at Whitehurst Funeral Chapel, Los Banos, CA. The Funeral Mass will Tuesday, September 13, 2016 beginning at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Los Banos, CA.; burial to follow at Los Banos District Cemetery.
Services under the direction of Whitehurst Funeral Chapels~Los Banos.