Wanda Gail Willowby CottonWanda Gail Willowby Cotton of Ellensburg, Washington passed away on March 17, 2016 in Ellensburg from cancer. She was born on Dec 16, 1941 to Otis and Pairlee Treat of Phoenix, Arizona.Wanda was raised in Grandview Washington and graduated from Grandview High School in 1960. In Grandview, she enjoyed swimming, water ballet, riding her horses, singing and sewing. Wanda loved children and animals. She was a stay-at-home mother of two children and an in home childcare provider for numerous children including foster kids in Port Townsend, Washington and later when she returned back to the Ellensburg area. Wanda raised and cared for many animals but most cherished her horses and dogs. Wanda's last profession was that of a registered nurse. Wanda was married in 1966 to David Cotton whom she met at a dance hall in Ellensburg and was married for 12 years. She spent most of her years as a strong-minded independent woman. Wanda had many friends that admired her determination and strong willed nature. She had the ability to make friends instantly with her uninhibited spirit and readiness to talk with anyone. Wanda was very proud of her Native American, Choctaw heritage. Wanda is notably remembered for her strong operatic voice. She sang in many choirs and performed for many weddings and events. She was a promoter and advocate for preserving the traditional hymns and gospel music.Wanda is survived by her mother Pairlee Householder and step father Delvin Householder of Sunnyside; son, Michael Cotton of San Diego; daughter, Julie Allen of Bothell; 7 grandchildren, Michael Cotton, Alexandria Cotton, Brandon Cotton, Gabriel Cotton, Pablo Benavidez, Ivan Plevancic and Raina Allen; as well as numerous other relatives and friends. A welcome potluck will start at 11:30am Saturday, March 26 at the Ellensburg Foursquare church, with a memorial service to follow at 1:00pm. A graveside committal will be at High Valley Cemetery, 2521 Robinson Canyon Rd at 2:30pm. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.brooksidefhc.com.