Melvin A. Botts, Jr.

Melvin A. Botts, Jr., a resident of Odenton, MD, passed away on Wednesday, February 13, 2019 at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, MD.  He was 96.

Mel is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Helen Botts; four loving children, Glenna (Tom) Wolking, Robert Jenkins, John Botts and Diane (Bill) Biggs; five devoted siblings, Marion Sirk, Perry (Linda) Cowgill, Parker (June) Cowgill, John (Marie) Cowgill, Mary Lee Creegan; six cherished  grandchildren, Jeff Botts, Christina (Matt) Fritz, Brian (Shaki) Botts, Heather (Jimmy) Roe, Tom (James) Wolking, Kimberly (Kenny) Burk; and seven adorable great grandchildren, Cameron, Tenni, Sade, Catie, Sammi, Kenny, and Jackson.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Eleanora and Melvin Botts; brothers, Henry Botts, Ellis (Emily) Botts, and Ralph (Carol) Paris; and brothers-in-law, Lee Sirk and Bill Creegan; and daughter-in-law, Bonnie Botts.

Mel held many positions in his long life, but Husband, Brother, Dad, Uncle, Granddad, Great-Granddad, cousin, and friend are the titles that meant most to a man who lived a life full love, and compassion.  His quick-witted, jovial spirit endeared him to everyone he met.  Mel never met a stranger.

In 50 year of marriage Melvin and Helen shared many wonderful experiences.  From taking a months-long road trip from coast-to-coast in the “HEL-MEL” mobile; cruising the Caribbean, Europe, and Alaska; to walking behind the falls at Niagara and along the rim of an active volcano in Hawaii it was always an adventure.

Before moving into a condo, Mel kept the most well-groomed yard in Lanham.  His burgundy and gold rec-room was a testament to his love of all things Redskins.  He loved bowling, fishing, and Bingo, but his favorite activity was spending time with family.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.  

The family will receive friends at the Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory, P.A., 1411 Annapolis Road, Odenton, MD 21113 on Saturday, February 23, 2019 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. A Funeral Service will take place at 1:00 pm. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Melvin’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org or to the ASPCA at www.aspca.org.

 Online condolences may be made at www.DonaldsonFuneralHomes.com

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