Nicholas Edward "Nick" Botta

Nicholas Edward (Nick) Botta

February 1, 1933 - June 19, 2023

Dr. Nicholas Edward Botta (Nick), a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on June 19, 2023, at the age of 90. He was born on February 1, 1933, to Dr. Louis Patrick Botta and Annie Mae Sabatini Botta in Birmingham, Alabama. Dr. Botta's dedication to his family, his patients and profession, and his contributions to the community will be greatly missed. His lively spirit and contagious humor throughout his long life were an inspiration to all who knew him.

Dr. Botta graduated from Ensley High School in 1950. He received his undergraduate degree from Auburn University in 1954 where he was an active member of the Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. He went on to receive his doctor of dentistry from the University of Alabama, Birmingham's School of Dentistry in 1958. He served his country as a First Lieutenant in the Dental Corp of the US Air Force.

Throughout his career, Nick made a significant impact as a local dentist, providing compassionate care to his patients for over four decades, from 1961 to 2006. His commitment to the dental profession touched the lives of many in the community, earning him great love and admiration. Nick's contributions extended beyond his dental practice. He served as the President of the Auburn Chamber Commerce, on the Board of Directors of SouthTrust Bank, and was a previous coowner of Hyundai of Auburn. One of his notable achievements was his involvement in the creation of Duck Samford Football Stadium, which has been the site of thousands of sports matchups for the children of the city of Auburn and beyond, and continues to serve our city to this day.

Nick was widowed by his late spouse, Joyce McNeal Botta. He was also preceded in death by his father, Dr. Louis Patrick Botta; his mother, Annie Mae Sabatini Botta; his brother, Louis Patrick Botta; Jr.; and his sister and brotherinlaw, Mary Ann Botta and Buddy Ray. His life was further tragically impacted when his beloved daughter, Lori Botta Conner (Wes Lawler), lost her lengthy battle with cancer.

Nick will be deeply missed by his wife, Penny Brown Botta, who admired and adored him. His memory will live on through his daughter, Lisa Botta Wilson (Richard); his grandchildren, Richard Craig (R.C.) Wilson; Nicholas Chase Wilson; and Katherine McNeal (Nealy) Conner. He is also survived by his niece, Alyson Ray Rutberg (Neil); and greatniece, Wynn Rutberg; stepsons, Ben Davis (Melissa) and Carter Davis; and stepgrandchildren, Charlie Davis and Connor Davis.

A service to celebrate Nick's life will be held on Saturday, July 8 at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home. Visitation begins at 10 a.m., with service immediately following at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Lee County Humane Society or the East Alabama Food Bank, causes close to Nick's heart.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the support of many family members and friends, CenterWell Home Health, Emptia Palliative Care, and The Bethany House.