Yvonne Darlene Botts

She is survived by her husband of 75 years, James Gordon Botts; children, Jim Botts (Stephanie), Dan Botts (Tammy), and Jennifer Bearden (Jimmy); grandchildren, Jolene Edsen, Jimmy Botts, Garrett Botts, Amber Botts, David Bearden, Andrew Bearden, and Mark Bearden; six great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Elsworth and Edith Knepper; sisters, Frances Smith and Vera Allen; and brother, Ralph Knepper.

Darlene was born in Evansville, Indiana on February 24, 1932. She was a devoted wife and mother. She loved her family well by serving them, praying for them, and she insisted on feeding anyone who visited. A skilled seamstress, she made her own dresses, her daughters’ clothes, stuffed animals and dolls, and was constantly mending her children’s clothes. She was a great cook, but an exceptional baker. Her desserts were delicious, but nothing came close to her pies and her pie dough.

Most importantly, she loved Jesus. She surrendered her life to Jesus Christ at a young age and married a man who shared her faith. She read her Bible, prayed for her family, and would talk to her children about scripture. She made sure her family was ready for church every week because she knew the importance of training up her children in the way they should go, and she prayed her children would love the Lord and raise their families in the same way.

A graveside service will be held at New Hope Cemetery on Thursday, December 12, at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to New Hope Baptist Church for Missions.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kilgroefh.com for the Botts family.