Ronald Arthur Botsford

Ronald Arthur Botsford passed peacefully into eternal rest on May 14, 2025, at his home in Black Mountain, North Carolina, surrounded by those who loved him most. Born on September 1, 1933, in Buffalo, New York, Ron lived a life defined by faith, service, adventure, and a deep love for his family. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Pat; his parents, Russell and Margaret Botsford; and his sister, Sue Dalay. Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Cheryl Wilson of Black Mountain, NC, and Michelle Palmer of Seabrook, TX; grandchildren Matthew Wilson (Jamie) of Memphis, TN, Brittany Williams (Chad) of Black Mountain, NC, and Brian Gavaghan (Jessica) of Houston, TX; and six great-grandchildren: Julee, Kevyn, Britnee, and Charlie Wilson; Keaton Williams; and Maisy Gavaghan. He is also remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and a host of "adopted" children whose lives he touched over the years. Ron grew up in Buffalo and attended Colgate University, where he double majored in Political Science and History. Committed to serving his country, he joined the U.S. Air Force upon graduation, earning his pilot wings on March 13, 1957. His military career was marked by distinction-he flew two tours in Vietnam, served as an instructor pilot, and completed numerous special missions. After 20 years in the military and serving his country, he retired as a Major. Following his military service, Ron pursued his spiritual call to ministry, attending Columbia Theological Seminary and later earning his Doctor of Ministry from McCormick Theological Seminary. As a Presbyterian minister, Ron was known for his ability to breathe new life into congregations in transition. His ministry took him to churches throughout Georgia, South Carolina-including James Island Presbyterian-and ultimately to First Presbyterian Church in Highlands, NC, where he served until his retirement in 1995. Ron had a lifelong spirit of curiosity and a love for travel and adventure. He explored all 50 U.S. states and every continent except Antarctica, sharing many of those journeys with his children and grandchildren, especially treasuring time spent in England and Scotland. He and Pat also enjoyed exploring the beauty of Western North Carolina and made regular visits to family in Illinois and Arizona. In retirement, Ron continued his ministry by serving as a volunteer chaplain at the VA Medical Center and at ABCCM's Veterans Restoration Quarters. He also served as interim pastor at Westminster Presbyterian, West Asheville Presbyterian, and Mills River Presbyterian. In his later years, he was known for his humor, storytelling, and vibrant personality. Whether working on a word search puzzle, eating lunch at Denny's or Cracker Barrel, attending church, or swapping stories with friends, Ron loved being surrounded by family and friends. A celebration of Ron's life will be held at Black Mountain Presbyterian Church on Sunday, May 18 at 3:00 p.m., with a reception to follow. A private burial will take place at a later date at the Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Black Mountain Presbyterian Church's Children and Family Ministry, 117 Montreat Road, Black Mountain, NC 28711 or ABCCM Veterans Restoration Quarters, 1845 Brevard Road, Arden, NC 28704.