Howard James Botto Jr.

1937 - 2023

Howard James Botto Jr. died peacefully on January 16, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Howard was born on August 25, 1937, in Memphis, TN to the late Howard James Botto Sr. and Sadie Louise Monaghan Botto. He graduated from Catholic High School in 1955 and Christian Brothers College, receiving his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He enjoyed lifelong friendships made at Catholic High, often coordinating lunches with his large group of friends.

Howard had a 40-year career with General Truck Sales where he formed many lasting relationships. He was a "people person" and he loved helping companies and individuals find exactly what they needed. His love of sales brought accolades in the form of numerous awards and vacation trips for his hard work. Howard especially loved traveling with the love of his life, Margaret Anne Morrison Botto. The two were married in 1959 and celebrated 63 wonderful years together. Howard was most proud of his family. He dearly loved his 6 children, 15 grandchildren and 5 great grandsons. A devoted father, he taught by example putting God and family first in every situation. He never missed an important event; attending every graduation ceremony, First Communion, Confirmation or wedding. Howard cultivated relationships, always checking in on others and available whenever you needed him. He enjoyed being with his family and friends sharing stories and laughs of memories past. Time with friends and family was far more important to him than anything else in life. This was witnessed on a daily basis and on how courageously he fought to live even to his last breath.

Howard leaves behind his loving wife Margaret Botto, his children: Dennis Botto (Missy), Danny Botto (Bridget), Lynn Young (Bob), Barbara D'Angelo (Lee), Chris Botto (Ashley), Brian Botto (Katie). He also leaves his grandchildren, Katie, Lauren, Rachel, Brett, Michael, Stephen, Brianna, Christian, Matthew, Caroline, Walker, Anna Cate and Livie as well as his great grandsons, Tyler, Jameson, Andrew, Brooks and Bennett.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Sadie Botto, sister Sugie Branstetter (Ted), brother Monte Botto, nephews Timmy Brignole and John Botto and his grandson Patrick Young.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 21, 2023, at St. Louis Catholic Church. Visitation will be at 10:30am, with a mass at 11:00am. A lunch to celebrate the life of this amazing man will follow in the Clunan Center.