William Lawrence Cotulla
Cotulla, 84
William Lawrence Cotulla died on October 19, 2020 in San Antonio at the age of 84. He was born on May 30, 1936 to William Paul and Elizabeth Cotulla.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
Bill was very proud and passionate about his heritage as the great grandson of Joseph Cotulla, a Polish immigrant who founded the town of Cotulla. He lived in Cotulla most of his life, living away from there as a university student, serving in the Armed Forces, and health reasons that ultimately caused him to move to San Antonio.
Bill was a consummate learner. He graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and then earned his Doctor of Jurisprudence from the University of Texas Law School. After graduation from UT Law, Bill enlisted in the United States Army, where he served as an attorney. During this time, he was stationed in Baltimore, Maryland.
Upon return from the Army, Bill ran Model Market, the family grocery store until 1979. He also oversaw the family ranches in La Salle, Dimmitt, and Webb counties. In addition, Bill was Director of the Stockmens National Bank for over 25 years.
Bill served as Deacon and Sunday school teacher at the First Baptist Church of Cotulla. He also provided the community with Bible courses held from his home.
He was active in his community, serving as Mayor of Cotulla and was a member of the city council. He was also a member of the Chamber of Commerce, where he was instrumental to Cotulla’s recognition as part of the Texas Main Street program. He also served as an active member of the Cotulla Masonic Lodge #892 where he was Past Master.
An avid reader, Bill often read a novel per day. He was very active with the Alexander Memorial Library where he served on the board for many years.
In 2011, Bill established the William L. Cotulla Endowment with the Laredo Area Community Foundation to benefit the First Baptist Church.
Graveside services were held Thursday, October 22 at 11 a.m. in the Cotulla Cemetery in Cotulla.
In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to the William L. Cotulla Endowment at the Laredo Area Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The endowment benefits the First Baptist Church in Cotulla. Checks can be sent to: Laredo Area Community Foundation, P.O. Box 450223, Laredo, Texas 78045.
Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Peters Funeral Home, Cotulla.
