Delphine J. Kottas

Delphine J. Kottas, of Birmingham, Alabama, died at age 101 on October 29, 2024. Born in Buffalo, New York, she worked as a legal secretary at a bank, where she became the most sought-after shorthand stenographer and typist in the office and acquired her life-long habit of keeping meticulous records. In later years, she volunteered at her local library. Del was married to Walter Kottas for 48 years.

Del was always the life of the party. The saying “never met a stranger” was created for her. She brightened the day of everyone that crossed her path, welcoming friends and acquaintances alike with a big smile, a bigger hug, and more often than not, some chocolate. She was an avid nonfiction reader, crocheted beautiful blankets, and played the organ “by ear.” The letters she wrote were legendary among family and friends, the many cards she sent always included a heartfelt handwritten note, and for special occasions, she always composed a poem.

Del is survived by her three children, Kathy Blandford (Ron Ramsden), Carole Mazer (Michael), and Jim Kottas (Cindy), and five grandchildren, Adam Mazer, Tara Mazer, Cori Mazer, Joel Kottas, and Jason Kottas, as well as several cousins, nieces, nephews and their families. Del’s family, including her predeceased sister Lauretta Long (Robert) and brother Joe Aguglia (Alice), meant everything to her. She will be dearly missed.

The funeral will be held at Southern Heritage Funeral Home (475 Cahaba Valley Rd, Pelham, AL 35214) at 11:00am on Friday, November 8, 2024, preceded by a visitation at 10:30am.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church (7340 Cahaba Valley Rd., Birmingham, AL 35242) or to a charity of your choice.