Obituary of Mary Ann Dubose Hottel

On June 26, 2021 Mary Ann Dubose Hottel departed the confines of her earthly body to soar to heaven and reside among the angels and Jesus Christ. Family members already departed include her mother and father, Gertrude and Charles Dubose; sister, Carol Dubose; nephew, David Dubose; as well as her special mother-in-law, Ruth Ritter Hottel.

Left to cherish her memories and celebrate her life are her husband, James Oliver Hottel; son, James Holt Hottel and his wife Robin Wright Hottel; daughters, Leah Hottel Buckley and her husband, Shannon Anderson Buckley, Gail Hottel Lee and her husband, David Tyler Lee; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; brother, John Lawrence Dubose and his wife Judy Dubose; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Mary was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida. As a young adult she worked for Prudential Life Insurance, transferred to New York City and then transferred back to Florida. She met Jim Hottel in Florida where he was stationed in the Navy. They married on February 4, 1956 and enjoyed 65 years together. After getting married they moved to Falls Church, Virginia and started their family. In 1968, choosing to live in the country, they moved their family to Craig County, VA. Mary was involved in her children’s lives and school activities, choosing to stay home when they were young. She was an excellent wife, compassionate mother, seamstress extraordinaire, family financier, great gardener and excellent cook. She often said cooking for others was an expression of her love for them. Mary loved and cared for all the family pets that included cats, kittens, dogs, a lamb and her beloved dog, Missy.

In 1973 she returned to work part-time in New Castle, VA. She first worked for Mr. Surface (former lawyer in New Castle) and then began working at the Craig County Department of Social Services. She developed many close friendships while working there, including her close friends, Bev Ewers and Betsy Huffman. In her retirement, Mary enjoyed spending time with her husband and their family. Mary and Jim traveled all over the United States and spread their patriotism wherever they went. After two of her grandchildren were diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis, Mary became involved with fundraising for this organization. Mary enjoyed her hobbies of sewing, cooking, gardening and canning. She was a member of the Catawba Community Club.

It was the privilege of a lifetime having Mary in our lives. She was a blessing, an inspiration and an excellent role model. The world is a better place due to the love and grace of Mary Ann Dubose Hottel.

The family would like to express gratitude for the care and compassion that Mrs. Paula Martin and Mrs. Penny Frye provided to Mary. Also, a special acknowledgement to the entire Carilion Hospice Team. Mary died peacefully in her sleep on June 26, 2021 surrounded by her family.

A service honoring Mary’s life will be held at 4:00 P.M. on Wednesday, June 30, 2021 in the Chapel of Paitsel Funeral Home, New Castle, VA.

In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 4600 Park Road, Suite 100, Charlotte, NC 28209.