Francis Cote Obituary

With heavy hearts we celebrate and honor the life of Francis "Frank" Xavier Cote Jr., a husband, father, war hero, patriot, and a man who left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Frank passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on October 3, 2025. He was born in New Britain, Connecticut on July 20, 1933, to Francis Xavier and Marie Cote. He is survived by his sons, Richard Cote (Laura) of Summerville, SC, Randy Cote (Sabina) of Greenville, SC, Jeff Cote (Tonya) of Clarksville, TN; his daughter, Michelle Schwartz (David) of Hanahan, SC; his seven grandchildren, Michael, Nicholas, Trevor, Kaitlyn, Aubree, Elizabeth and Matthew; and his three great grandchildren, Jack, June and Catherine. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Gertrude and Pauline; and Betty, his beloved wife of 68 years. Frank's calling was always flying. He joined the US Air Force and was deployed during the Korean Conflict as a mechanic. Upon returning home, he earned a slot in Officer Candidate School, and his dream finally came true. During the Cuban Missile Crisis, Frank and his crew flew his B-47 bomber around the clock, armed with nuclear weapons and sealed orders they prayed they'd never have to open. It was a tense time, and his courage and composure spoke volumes about the man he was - steadfast, brave, and utterly devoted to his country. In 1967, Frank served as a Forward Air Controller in Vietnam, a highly dangerous assignment with a high mortality rate, yet he faced it head-on, driven by duty and conviction. His service earned him the Bronze Star, the Air Medal, and the Distinguished Flying Cross - a true testament to his heroism. Frank was a man of many interests. He loved bowling, tinkering with any engine, golf, bridge, baking cookies, and watching classic comedy movies with his grandchildren. He especially loved It's a Mad, Mad, Mad World, and O Brother, Where Art Thou - fitting choices for a man with a mischievous sense of humor and a deep appreciation for the absurdity of life. Frank is now reunited with his cherished wife Betty but will be greatly missed by his family and many friends. His vivid memory and spirit will live in our hearts forever. He lived an extraordinary life - not just in the medals he earned or the missions he flew, but in the love he gave, the humor he shared, and the example he set. In honor of Frank's life and service, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. A visitation will take place from 12 noon until 12:45 p.m. Friday, October 10, 2025, at Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Southeast followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel. Interment will follow in Graceland East Memorial Park. Friends are encouraged to share their favorite memories of Francis with the family by clicking on the button labeled "Share A Memory".