Janet Ruth Botkins, 80, of Mexico, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023, at Heisinger Bluffs in Jefferson City.
Janet was born on Sept. 10, 1942, in Elvins, the daughter of Virgil and Mamie (Barton) Murry. On April 10, 1982, in Mexico, she married Van Botkins. He passed away on June 2, 2007.
Janet graduated from Flat River High School in 1960. She worked for the Missouri 12th Judicial Circuit Court for more than 20 years, retiring in 2001 from her Court Reporter position.
She will be remembered by many as an unselfish caretaker who gave many years of her life lovingly taking care of her husband Van through his many years of illness. Van was the love of her life and she devoted herself completely to his well-being.
Janet had a lifelong passion for music. From dancing around the record player and at school dances as a teenager to dancing the nights away with Van years later. She loved to sing and spent years singing in the church’s choir and entertaining crowds as a member of The Silvertones. Janet’s musical talent also included playing the piano for her church and on many other special occasions. Her deep love of gospel music moved her to attend every Gaither Homecoming concert within traveling distance. Most of her retirement days were spent singing along with a Gaither DVD.
She also loved to travel. No matter how near or far, she loved the adventure of seeing what was over the next hill. Many of her fondest travel memories were of those annual trips taken with her high school classmates.
Finally, we must admit that everyone has a dark side and Janet’s was Putt-Putt Golf. When this God-fearing, loving, and playful woman stepped onto the Putt-Putt course, it was a win at all cost mindset.
Survivors include her children, Jeff Zimmer of Vandalia, MO, Toni Monsen of Mexico, MO, Joel (Christie) Zimmer of Farmington, Cindi (Matt) Kelly of Barnett, and John (Cobi) Zimmer of Hannibal; a sister, Nancy (Charles) Beatte of Jefferson City; and many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
In addition to her husband, Van, Janet was preceded in death by her parents, Virgil Murry and George and Mamie Scott.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her memory to Gentiva Hospice (Jefferson City). For more information go to www.gentivahs.com.
