Yashika Anquanette Cotton, affectionately known as "Shika," left this world on March 20, 2025, at Park West Medical Center in Knoxville, TN. She was born on November 28, 1980, in Macon, MS, to Curtis King and Annie Kate Cotton.

A proud graduate of Noxubee County High School, Class of 1998, Shika's journey took her to Kingston, TN, where she found fulfillment in her work at Amazon. Her dedication and work ethic were admired by her colleagues, but it was her vibrant spirit and infectious laughter that truly lit up the lives of those around her.

Her time at East Mississippi Community College was marked by her enthusiasm for learning and her desire to grow, both personally and professionally. Shika's warmth and kindness left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered, and her ability to make friends wherever she went was a testament to her loving nature.

Shika had a zest for life that was evident in everything she did. She cherished the simple joys of dancing, often losing herself in the rhythm of her favorite songs. Fishing trips with her father were a treasured pastime, where they shared stories and created lasting memories by the water. Shika also had a passion for travel, always eager to explore new places and meet new people, embracing every opportunity to connect with others.

Shika is survived by her loving parents, Curtis King and Annie Kate Cotton; her children, Demontae M. Lockett, Darnavious D. Lockett and Lamarcus A. Brown, Jr. all of Kingston, TN; her siblings, Quartisha Cotton of Ben Harbor, MI, Curtis King, Jr. of Kinston, TN and Anthony Frierson of Macon, MS; her grandmother, Annie Bell Cotton of Bent Harbor, MI; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.