Orson Lane Mccotter

Orson Lane McCotter passed away peacefully April 29, 2025, surrounded by his family.
Lane was born on July 29, 1940, and raised in Mt. Holly, North Carolina. He was the second of six children born to Richard Orson and Frances McCotter. From his parents he developed a deep love of family, God, and country.

Lane proudly served as an Airborne Ranger in the U.S. Army for 24 years, including 2 tours in the Vietnam War. He received a Masters degree in Criminology and Corrections from Sam Houston State University, and is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy, the Army Command and General Staff College, and the Air Force War College. Colonel McCotter concluded his military service as Commandant of the U.S. Disciplinary Barracks at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. In 1984, Lane retired from the Army and was appointed the Director of the Texas Department of Corrections. He subsequently directed the prison systems of the states of New Mexico and Utah. In 2003, he served for 4 months in Baghdad, Iraq as the senior advisor in reconstruction of the Iraqi criminal justice system. In 2015 at age 75, Lane retired, after serving for 10 years as Wasatch County Justice Court Judge.

On June 12, 1964 Lane married the love of his life, the beautiful Kathy Jeppesen, in the Salt Lake Temple. He adored her and was devoted to her in every way. Lane and Kathy believed their greatest work was in the home, being parents to their five children. They taught by example the power of love, humor, and the value of work. This was very evident by the way he lovingly cared for his wife during her 9 year battle with cancer.

Lane was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and joyfully served the Lord with all his heart and soul. He held a variety of callings, but none brought him greater joy than being a home teacher. He loved ministering, and caring for people one-on-one. He was happiest when he was serving others.

Lane was a great story teller, and will be remembered for his fun personality, sense of humor, optimism, and good nature. He enjoyed sports, western movies, and singing.

Lane was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathy; his missionary son, Monte; his parents; his sister, Marilyn Cavanaugh and his brother, Lynn McCotter.

He is survived by his children Felicia (Ralph) Tafuri; Heidi (Steve) Pugmire; Tate (Stacee) McCotter; Cade (Ashley) McCotter; his sister Nancy (Gary) Belcher; brother Steve (Becky) McCotter; sister Suzan (Steve) Loftin; fifteen grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the humanitarian or missionary fund of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or a charity of your choice.

The family wishes to express our deep gratitude to the dedicated caregivers at Spring Gardens Heber, who loved Lane, and helped care for him.

There will be viewings held on Sunday May 4, 2025 from 5-7pm, and on Monday May 5 from 10:30-11:30am at the Midway LDS Stake Center, 165 North Center Street, Midway. Funeral services will be at 12:00pm on Monday May 5, at the Midway Stake Center. Interment will be in the Midway Cemetery

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