Laura Evelyn Hawks Botschen, 93, passed peacefully at her home and took her place in God's Kingdom on January 3rd, 2021.

Evelyn is preceded in death by her husband Jay Armil Botschen; her daughters Laural Leigh Botschen, and Robin Etta Botschen-Holzheimer; and brother, Richard Hawks.

She leaves behind her son, Kim Lu (Betty); daughter, Sharon Smart (Ben); grandchildren, Hilary, Giselle (Jonathan), Zoe, Thor (Cynthia), Nola, Benjamin, and Roosevelt; sister, JoAnn Blow (Bob); brothers, Don Hawks and Morris Hawks; her great grandsons, Sonny, Gabe, Nino, and Jack; nephew Steve Blow (Jen); niece, Susan Strandberg (Brent); and several great-nieces and nephews.

Evelyn was born in Galax on July 5, 1927 to Fred and Gussie Hawks. She graduated from Radford University and Emory University and sought to give to others through her gift of teaching. Even though she was a world traveler, Fancy Gap was always her home.

Evelyn was a pillar of the Carroll County community. She taught English and was a guidance counselor and retired from Carroll County High School where she touched many lives that are still in this community today. She spearheaded many local interests, including the Hale Wilkerson Carter Foundation and the Devil's Den Nature Preserve so that others could enjoy the rich history that Carroll County offered. Her love of history also led her to join the Daughters of the American Revolution, Daughters of the Confederacy, and National Society of the Colonial Dames of America, where she served many roles including state president.

Evelyn was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, singing, and teaching her family history. She was a spiritual woman and was involved in many church activities, including the choir and playing the piano. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on January 9. 2021 at the Morris Family Cemetery with Pastors Kaye Seay and Danielle Goad officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Fancy Gap United Methodist Church 578 Old Appalachian Trail, the Morris Cemetery c/o Snow Insurance P.O. Box 1237, Hillsville, VA 24343 or to the Hale Wilkinson Carter Home Foundation, P.O. Box 217 Hillsville, VA 24343. Vaughan-Guynn-McGrady Chapel is serving the family.