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A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION
26-121
IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
January 6, 2026
To posthumously recognize and honor the life and legacy of John Fitzgerald Cotten for his
exemplary service, leadership, and dedication to the residents of the District of Columbia.
WHEREAS, the Council of the District of Columbia mourns the passing of John
Fitzgerald Cotten, a distinguished resident, exemplary community leader, and devoted public
servant whose lifelong commitment to service profoundly enriched the lives of countless District
residents, particularly those in Ward 7 and throughout Southeast Washington;
WHEREAS, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, welcomed Brother John
Fitzgerald Cotten in 1987 through initiation into the Beta Kappa Chapter at the University of the
District of Columbia, where he served with distinction as the 47th Polemarch of the Washington
Alumni Chapter, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication to the fraternity’s cardinal
principles of achievement and service;
WHEREAS, as a proud alumnus and coach at H.D. Woodson High School, John
Fitzgerald Cotten dedicated himself to mentoring and developing the youth of the District,
instilling in them values of leadership, academic excellence, resilience, and community
responsibility that continue to resonate with his former students and athletes;
WHEREAS, John Fitzgerald Cotten served as a tireless advocate for Ward 7 and
Southeast Washington, providing leadership for the Beacon House annual turkey drives,
advocating for the completion and renovation of the Fort Dupont Ice Arena, serving as Master of
Ceremonies for Metropolitan Founders Day celebrations, and contributing to numerous other
community initiatives that strengthened the fabric of District neighborhoods;
WHEREAS, John Fitzgerald Cotten’s posthumous induction into the District of
Columbia Department of Parks and Recreation Hall of Fame recognizes his outstanding
contributions to recreational programs, youth athletics, and community wellness throughout the
District;
WHEREAS, following a distinguished 40-year career with the United States Department
of the Treasury’s Bureau of Engraving and Printing, John Fitzgerald Cotten continued to devote
his time and considerable talents to advancing the welfare of his fellow District residents,
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exemplifying his personal motto, “Brick by Brick,” through consistent and dedicated community
engagement;
WHEREAS, the District of Columbia has lost an extraordinary citizen in John Fitzgerald
Cotten, whose legacy of selfless service, youth mentorship, and community advocacy will
endure for generations and serve as an inspiration to current and future residents; and
WHEREAS, John Fitzgerald Cotten’s loved ones have called on the District of Columbia
government to honor his memory by continuing to support youth development programs,
community enhancement initiatives, and equitable opportunities for all residents across the
District of Columbia, particularly in Ward 7 and Southeast Washington.
RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this
resolution may be cited as the “John Fitzgerald Cotten Posthumous Recognition Resolution of
2026”.
Sec. 2. The Council of the District of Columbia posthumously honors the life, service,
and contributions of John Fitzgerald Cotten and extends its deepest sympathies and heartfelt
condolences to his beloved wife, Silhouette Cotten, his family, his fraternity brothers of Kappa
Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, and all those whose lives were touched and enriched by his
remarkable character and unwavering commitment to service.
Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately.