James Richard Botkin

James “Richard” Botkin, age 90, of Churchville, passed away Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at Augusta Health, Fishersville.

He was born August 26, 1935 in McDowell, a son of the late Paul Silas and Cora Margaret (Varner) Botkin. For 85 years he lived in his home, the home where he was born, until moving to Churchville in 2020.

A devout Christian, Richard was a member of Hiner Church of the Brethren, where he served as a trustee. Additionally, he was an active member of the Stonewall Ruritan Club for more than 40 years, and a charter member of the McDowell Volunteer Fire Department. In his high school years, he was an active member of the FFA and Young Farmers.

A lifelong farmer, he led a life of clean living, hard work, and service to his neighbors and community. He also worked at the Monterey Livestock Market for several years, and assisted Tom Jones building fence.

Richard, always a kind and simple soul, enjoyed time spent reflecting upon church, fox hunting, participating in square dances, as well as listening to Bluegrass, Bluegrass Gospel music, and sermons on the radio. Richard was also known to be a “people-person,” who truly enjoyed visiting with friends and family, and was an excellent source of history to his cousins. One of his greatest enjoyments was attending his yearly high school reunions.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four brothers, two sisters, a brother-in-law, and a nephew.

He is survived by numerous cousins and many dear friends.

A funeral service will be held 2 p.m., Saturday, January 17, 2026 at Obaugh Funeral Home, McDowell with pastor Jeff Fike officiating. Burial will follow in the Doe Hill Cemetery.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will be Ray, Gary, and Steve Kisamore, Hiram Tackett, Doug and Drew Britt, Wes Staton, and Charles Varner.

Honorary pallbearers include Nelson Simmons, R.J. and J.J. White, Delbert Rexrode, Douglas Botkin, Larry Armstrong, Ralph Simmons, and Steve Botkin.

Memorials may be made to the Stonewall Ruritan Club, 67 Bullpasture River Road, McDowell, VA 24458; or Doe Hill Cemetery, c/o Delbert Rexrode, 527 Windrush Lane, Doe Hill, Va. 24433; or to the McDowell Volunteer Fire Department, c/o Delbert Rexrode, 527 Windrush Lane, Doe Hill, Va. 24433.