Douglas Edward Cottrell

Douglas Edward Cottrell, 68, of Van Buren, passed away surrounded by loved ones on Monday, July 7, 2025. Doug dedicated 27 years to teaching, most of them spent sharing his love of science with 5th and 6th graders at Cedarville Public Schools. Known for his creativity in the classroom, he made learning memorable – timing his worm lessons with spaghetti day in the cafeteria, launching film canister rockets, and showing solar flares through a special telescope lens. His passion for science and belief in every student’s potential left a lasting impact on generations.

After retiring from teaching, Doug continued to serve his community by volunteering for 15 years at the Van Buren Train Depot and Visitor Center. His curious mind and love of history made him a natural storyteller and ambassador for the town he loved.

Doug was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and community member. He and his beloved wife traveled to over 25 countries, and he instilled that same sense of adventure and curiosity in his children. He was a steadfast Edmonton Oilers fan, a history buff, an art enthusiast, and a lifelong learner.

Doug’s kindness, wit, and wisdom impacted the lives of all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the countless people he taught, mentored, and loved.

He was preceded in death by his father, Earnest Cottrell; his mother, Emily McGarrah Cottrell; and his brother, Stan Cottrell.

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Karen Wyers Cottrell of Van Buren; his daughters, Kathryn Martin and husband Joel of Collierville, TN, Julia Cottrell of Fayetteville, and Alsu Fattakhova of Durham, NC. He was a proud grandfather to Vivian and Gwyneth Martin, also of Collierville, and a dedicated brother to Joy Cottrell Haley (Clyde) of Fort Smith.

Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 12, 2025 at Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home Chapel. Cremation is under the direction of Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home of Van Buren, AR.

The family will visit with friends from 10:00 a.m. until service time, Saturday, at the funeral home, 4100 Alma Highway, Van Buren, AR.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Doug’s memory to the Arkansas Children’s Hospital at www.archildrens.org or the River Valley Food Bank at www.rvrfoodbank.org.