Roy “Cotton” Avery of Strafford, Missouri was born April 8, 1929 in Denver, Arkansas and passed away on May 6, 2013 in Springfield, Missouri. He was retired from Frisco/Burlington-Northern Railroad after 46 years of service. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, three sons, James, Charles and Willard Avery, one daughter, Teri Quick, 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Roy was a member of First Baptist Church, Strafford and NARVRE (National Association of Retired and Veterans Railway Employees). He was known for his love of bluegrass music. Memorial contributions can be made to the Strafford Senior Center where he served on the board, delivered meals and played his “tub”. Visitation will be Thursday, 6 – 8 pm with funeral services Friday at 10 am at Greenlawn North, Springfield. Burial will be in Danforth Cemetery, Strafford.