Mary Lou "Jefferies" Botich

Mary Lou Botich, 96 years old, passed away at 9:55 p.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at the Center for Hospice, Ernestine Raclin House in Mishawaka surrounded by love. Mary Lou was born on December 12, 1929 to the late Ralph and Arlene (Schaffer) Jefferies. On October 9, 1948 in South Bend, Mary Lou married the love of her life, John Botich, Sr. Together, they were devoted members of the Saints Peter and Paul Serbian Orthodox Church. From this loving union, they welcomed two sons, John Jr. and Jeffrey.

Mary Lou worked for several years at Wells Electronics where she was known for her strong work ethics and kind heart. She enjoyed spending time with her friends and family, especially during the holidays. Mary Lou loved cooking and baking for her family and took great joy in caring for those she loved. She was truly loved by all who knew her.

Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Arlene Jeffries; her beloved husband, John Botich, Sr.; son, Jeffrey Botich; brother and sister-in-law, Harold and Jackie Jefferies; and in-law, Alexis and Stana Botich.

Mary Lou is survived by her son, John (Donna) Botich, Jr.; daughter-in-law, Linda Botich; grandchildren, Brian (Michelle) Botich, Brandon (Misty) Botich, Nicole Botich, Kim Dunifin, Angela Phillips, and Brandon (Yesenia) Bruntz; and many great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 29, 2026 at the Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel, 3718 S. Michigan Street, South Bend. Graveside services and burial will follow at Southlawn Cemetery, South Bend. Friends may visit with the family beginning at 12:00 noon on Thursday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Mary Lou Botich may be donated to Saints Peter and Paul Serbian Orthodox Church, 59248 Keria Trail, South Bend, IN 46614 or to Center for Hospice, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, IN 46545. The Botich family would like to thank the staff at Wellbrooke of South Bend for their care and compassion. Online condolences may be offered to the Botich family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.