Surrounded by loved ones, Virgil "Cotton" Talley passed away at the age of 94 in Ironton, Missouri on October 28, 2022. Cotton was born to Ottis and Rolla (Mason) Talley on May 8, 1928. Cotton was the beloved husband of the late Yvonne (Alcorn) Talley and is preceded in death by his brothers and sisters Matilda (Bill) Laster, Olin Talley, Lucile (Lawrence) Bailey, Donald Edward (Nancy) Talley, Leonard Talley, Margret Nipper, Doris (Rusty) Moore, and Bennie Talley along with his brother in law Horace (Yvonne) Alcorn.

Cotton is survived by his sister, Wilma (John) Svetina, brother-in-law Clyde Nipper and his children Susan (Ken) Talley, Paula (Jim) Pursley, and Chris (Julie) Talley. Cotton was the dearest grandfather of Jennifer (Brian) Gomski, Lauren (Kyle) Jasper, Anna (Mike) Ehlers, Michal (Michael) Smith, Emma (fiancé Tanner) Pursley, and Joel Talley. Cotton was great grandfather "Pop-Pop" to Carter Gomski, Nora Gomski, Keagan Jasper, Mason Gomski, and Harrison Jasper. Furthermore, Cotton was an uncle and great friend to many.

As a faithful member of Fee Fee Baptist church, Cotton served as deacon, Sunday school teacher, softball coach and athletic director. Cotton enjoyed spending time with his family, playing music, collecting coins and Dickens Village houses, and telling stories. Cotton served in the Army from 1950 to 1952.

A visitation will be held at Collier's Funeral Home, St. Ann, MO on November 3, 2022 from 4 to 8 pm. A funeral service will be held at Fee Fee Baptist church, Bridgeton, MO on November 4, 2022 at 10 am. All who knew and loved Cotton are welcome.