Mrs. Betty Ray Botts

Mrs. Betty Ray Botts, 85, went to be with the Lord on February 15, 2011 after a short peaceful fight with lung cancer. She is survived by her beloved son, R. David Botts, who was holding her hand when she passed, daughter-in-law Betty Sanders Botts who she called "the daughter I always wanted", grandson Michael David Botts and grand-daughter Alyssa Betty Foy Botts. Her sister Gloria Stipp and family reside in Charlotte, N.C. She was pre-deceased by her husband of 50 years Robert H. Botts, son Michael Lester Botts and grandson Austin Sanders Botts. Betty R. Botts was born in Columbus, Georgia to Joseph S. & Irene T. Ray. She attended Columbus High, Wesleyan College and graduated from the University of Georgia with a dual degree in drama and speech. She was awarded the Gold Thalian Black Friar Key which is the highest national honorary award in drama. She also was a varsity cheerleader. Betty first sang on the radio at age seven and studied voice and drama until she turned professional. She had learned to sing in six languages. She quit her professional career when son David was born but continued to attend concerts and opera. Mrs. Botts was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, church member and had a charming way of making lasting friendships. The hobby she loved most was her antique button collection on which she regularly lectured to all age groups and schools. She was also an active member of the National Society of Colonial Dames, Daughters of the American Revolution and Daughters of the Confederacy. Betty R. Botts will be lovingly missed by everyone who knew her. She will be cremated followed by a private celebration of her life. The family requests that any donations in lieu of flowers be made to the Betty R. Botts Memorial fund at www.carmelchristian.org. Arrangements under the direction of H.M. Patterson & Son, Spring Hill in Atlanta, GA.