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

A Christian, Richard was a member of Hiner Church of the Brethren, where he served as a trustee. He was an active Stonewall Ruritan Club member of more than 40 years; as well as being 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 made a life out of living, working, helping neighbors, and serving in the Highland County community. He worked at the Monterey Livestock Market for several years; as well as worked for Tom Jones building fence.

A kind simple soul, Richard enjoyed reflecting upon church, fox hunting, and square dancing. Richard was a people person and enjoyed spending time with friends and family and was an excellent source of history to his cousins. He enjoyed listening to Bluegrass and Bluegrass Gospel music and to sermons on the radio. One of his greatest enjoyments was attending his High School Reunions yearly.

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

He is survived by numerous cousins and dear friends.

A funeral service will be 2 p.m., Saturday, January 17, 2026 at Obaugh Funeral Home, McDowell by pastor Jeff Fike. Burial will be 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 will be Nelson Simmons, R.J. and J.J. White, Delbert Rexrode, Douglas Botkin, Larry Armstrong, Ralph Simmons, Steve Botkin.

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