James Gordon Botts

He is survived by his children, Jim Botts (Stephanie), Dan Botts (Tammy), and Jennifer Bearden (James). Grandchildren, Jolene Edsen, Jimmy Botts, Garrett Botts, Amber Botts, David Bearden, Andrew Bearden, and Mark Bearden and six great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his bride of 75 years, Yvonne Darlene Botts, his parents James & Mae Botts and his brother Doug Botts.

Gordon was born in Union Town, Kentucky on October 2, 1928, in the same home where his father was born. He began his career in sales at the age of seven, selling ladies' handkerchiefs that his grandmother crocheted. In 1947, he went to work at International Harvester in Evansville and in 1955, relocated his family to California. He began working at Hughes Aircraft and dedicated 28 years to the company before retiring at the age of 55.

Gordon met his future bride at a church revival of five Evansville churches. They married on August 27, 1949. She was 17, he was 20.

He started college in the fall of 1956 and continued his education until he graduated with a Master’s in Business Administration in 1970 from Pepperdine University.

He had several loves, besides his bride and his family. He loved cars, he loved telling jokes and was very quick-witted, he loved music, especially gospel music, he loved to read and learn, and he loved Jesus.

It was important to him that he raise his family in church, and he wanted his children to know Jesus. When he breathed his last breath on earth, he entered his forever home, where he was reunited with his bride of 75 years and met his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, face to face.

He lived a long full life, he was loved deeply, and he will be greatly missed.

A graveside service will be held at New Hope Cemetery in Pell City, Alabama on Monday, April 28, 2025, at 11am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to New Hope Baptist Church, in Pell City, for Missions.

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