MURPHYSBORO - Terry Lee Cottonaro, 73, passed away at his home on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. Born on October 23, 1951, in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, he was the beloved son of Patricia Lorraine (Ferguson) and Vincent Joseph Cottonaro, Jr.

By the time Terry began school, his family had settled in Murphysboro, where he graduated from Murphysboro Township High School in 1969.  After his time at college and the railroad, he joined the family business, Home Heating and Air Conditioning.

Terry was a pillar of the greater community of Southern Illinois, as his presence and helpful spirit was felt far and wide.   He was a passionate Corvette collector, and he performed a frame-off restoration of his first Corvette, a 1971 Stingray convertible.   He was known for his extensive knowledge and appreciation of all types of classic automobiles and has owned many over the years.  He was also an avid duck hunter, cherishing the tranquility of the outdoors, along with the camaraderie of his hunting buddies and his Labrador retrievers.  While he was a fierce and passionate negotiator, he also believed in the fairness of a deal, and you could count on him to follow through on his promises.

He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Jane Cottonaro, and daughter, Carmen Murphy, son-in-law, Colin Murphy, and granddaughter, Corin Murphy, of Broomfield, Colorado.

Additionally, Terry is survived by his mother, Pat Cottonaro, of Murphysboro, Illinois, and sister, Karen Moore, of Auburndale, Florida, nieces and nephews, and a large circle of close friends, including his beloved breakfast roundtable pals.

He was preceded in death by his father, Vincent Joseph Cottonaro Jr., and his brother, Tom Cottonaro.

At this time, his family is planning for a celebration of life gathering in the summer.