Marcella was born to Sam and Gertrude Rutledge near Jerico Springs, Stockton, Mo. Marcella was married to Fred Cotter in the same area in 1948. Marcella is survived by son Larry Cotter, daughter Susan Pease and husband Steve, son Gary Cotter and wife Suzanne. Her grandchildren Ashley Bolton, David Pease and wife Cara, Mitchel Cotter, Beau Cotter, Her great-grandchildren Avery Glasgow, Max Bolton and Tenisin Pease, Darian Dark, Enzo Cotter, Her great-great-grandson Barrett Glasgow, Her brother Gus and wife Patsy Rutledge. Her (Like  daughter) Krysten Vunovic. Her very close neighbor Mary Kay Self, and Kelley Bolton.

Marcella always wanted to be a teacher as a small girl. She started teaching at 15 years old in a one room schoolhouse. She continued teaching for over 44 years, with a double master’s degree from SMS. She developed reading programs for the elementary schools and also taught reading education to SMS and Drury. After retiring from the school system, she managed all of her own rental properties and volunteered at Mercy Hospital for 30 years, 14,000 hours.

She always had a big smile and a sweet positive attitude and was very generous. She will always be remembered with love as a wonderful person.

Arrangements are under the direction of Greenlawn Funeral Home South.