John "Matt" Botts

John “Matt” Botts, of Franklin, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly at his home on October 28, 2026. He was born on July 7, 1980, in Middletown, Ohio.

Matt was a 1999 graduate of Middletown High School. He went on to build a career as an HVAC technician, working in the field for 20 years. His work included time with Robinson Heating and Air in Middletown, where he was known for the steady commitment he brought to his trade.

He was also a devoted Ohio State Buckeyes football fan. That love for Ohio State was reflected in one of the most personal parts of his life: his children's names, Scarlet Grace and his son Grayson were inspired by the Buckeyes’ scarlet and gray colors. It was a detail that spoke to both his enthusiasm and the way he carried the things he loved into family life. 

Above all, Matt will be remembered by those who knew and loved him best. He is survived by his father, Paul Botts; his children, Scarlet Botts (her mother Sarah Spencer) and Grayson Botts (his mother Michelle Botts); his sister Amanda Hackney and Michael; his sister Maggie Botts and Michael McMillen. Each of them shared an important place in his life and will carry his memory forward in their own way.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Becky Botts, and by his grandparents, Marcia Taulbee and John Taulbee.

Matt’s life was rooted in his hometown area, his work, his love of football, and the people closest to him. He will be remembered with love and missed deeply by his family and friends.  Services will be announced at a later date.