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Obituary Listings

Thomas Harrell Cotner

May 6, 1936 August 31, 2024
Thomas Harrell Cotner
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Obituary for Thomas Harrell Cotner
Thomas Cotner, a cherished resident of Martha, Oklahoma, passed away on August 31, 2024, at Magnolia Creek Nursing Home in Altus, Oklahoma. Born on May 6, 1936, in Altus, Oklahoma, Tom was the son of Harrell and Bess Cotner. His early exposure to music came at the age of three when he was first introduced to the piano, and by nine, he was already playing the organ. His passion for music flourished throughout his youth, leading him to engage actively in various choral and jazz groups during high school. He graduated from Altus High School in 1954. Following high school he attended Oklahoma A & M before following the passion of his life, music.
Tom's musical journey continued as he pursued classical organ studies at Midwestern University in Wichita Falls, Texas, on a tutelage under Nita Akin. His professional career took him across the United States and Europe, performing in classical concerts in Denmark and Australia as well as clubs and nightclubs in cities such as Seattle, Chicago, Denver, Boulder, New Orleans, and even Europe. While in Wichita Falls, he was introduced to organ installation and design, a field that would become his life's work. This unexpected turn led him to an apprenticeship with the J.C. William Organ Company in New Orleans, where he learned the intricate art of designing, building, and installing pipe organs.
In 1982, Tom returned to Martha, Oklahoma, to care for his parents and established his own business as Cotner Pipe Organs. He became renowned for his expertise, designing, constructing and installing fifty-six various pipe organs across the country, including notable installations in Altus at the First United Methodist Church, the First Presbyterian Church, and Highland Heights United Methodist Church. One of his most significant achievements was the refurbishing, designing and installing his dream pipe organ at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Altus, which was damaged in the Murray bombing at St. Paul's Cathedral in Oklahoma City.
Tom's dedication to his craft was matched by his love for sharing his gift. He faithfully played the organ for services at St. Paul's Episcopal Church for over thirty- years, delighting congregants with his music performances and hosting an annual Christmas concert for children. His skill and passion for the organ not only captivated audiences but also inspired his classmates and community members.
Tom was preceded in death by his father Harrell Cotner, his mother Bess Thompson Cotner, and his brother Frank Cotner. He is remembered fondly for his profound impact on the world of music and his enduring contributions to the pipe organ community.
Left to honor Tom's memory are his Church family at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, his classmates from 1954, and his countless friends from across the globe.
His legacy lives on through the countless organs he built and the lives he touched with his music.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 p.m Saturday, September 7, 2024 at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Altus, Oklahoma.
Upon Tom's request please make donations to the St. Paul's Episcopal Church Organ Fund for maintenance of Tom's masterpiece
Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Lowell - Tims Funeral Home and Crematory, Altus, Oklahoma.

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Previous Events

Celebration Of Life

Saturday

7

Sep

2:00 PM 9/7/2024 2:00:00 PM
St. Paul's Episcopal Church

721 North Thomas
Altus, OK 73521

St. Paul's Episcopal Church
721 North Thomas Altus 73521 OK
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