Jennifer Botkin
Jennifer Botkin (nee: Spilker) age 50, of Barnhart, MO passed away peacefully on 05/16/2026.
Born on 08/17/1975 in St. Louis to Richard Spilker and the late Elizabeth Spilker. A treasured daughter-in-law of Gary and Sharon Botkin; beloved wife of Michael Botkin; loving mother of Joel Botkin; dear sister and sister-in-law of Katherine (Dan) Staples, and Andrew (Taylor) Spilker; cherished aunt of Tyler Grygiel, Logan Grygiel, Henry Staples, Chase Spilker, Jaclynn Spilker and Maverick Spilker; dear sister-in-law of Melinda Botkin; aunt, cousin, friend, and teacher of many.
Jennifer loved family, friends, and her Savior above all else. She treasured experiences over all worldly things. Kindness, compassion, faith, and love were what defined her. Nothing made her happier than to be surrounded by those whom she loved. She loved playing board and card games, bonding with others, enjoying the outdoors, worshiping, reading novels, and listening to music. Called to a life of service; she knew from the beginning that she had a calling to be an educator. Despite her health challenges, she completed her Master’s Degree in Education, qualifying her as a Reading Specialist, in December of 2025. Her tenacious resolve and determination carried her through many daunting obstacles. Her inner strength was inspirational.
Jennifer was preceded in death by Elizabeth Spliker (Cook) (mother) Evelyn & John Cook (grandmother/grandfather) Mary Elizabeth & Donald Spilker (grandmother/grandfather). She is survived by Michael & Joel Botkin (husband/son), Rick Spliker (father), Kate, Dan, Tyler & Logan (Grygiel), & Henry Staples (sister & family), Andy, Taylor, Chase, Jaclynn, & Maverick Spilker (brother & family).
Memorial will be held on 05/30/2026 at New Hope United Methodist Church, Arnold, MO beginning at 11:00 am.
Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, or Jennifer’s Medical Expenses (re: Michael Botkin).
Jen was so very loved by everyone. My only regret is that I did not know her as well as I would have liked because I know my own life would have been richer, as so many others whose lives she touched. I am praying for the entire family for comfort and the peace that passes understanding. The Lord is close to the broken hearted. ❤️🙏
Sharon & Gary Botkin (Mother & Father-in-law). We were so blessed when Jennifer and Michael married and she became a treasured member of our family! Jen was not an “in-law”, she became our new daughter. Jen was an extremely friendly, outgoing and very caring young woman and her faith and love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was so strong! We were again blessed when Jen gave birth to their handsome son, Joel. Our dear, Jen, words cannot express how dearly you will be missed. Please tell your mother we said Hi! We love you, Baby Girl 💖
Michael and Joel, Please try to hold on to the good times, the great times. But, also let the tears come, let the smiles and laughter come too, even through the tears. Love you guys.
Jen will never be forgotten. She inspired so many students and staff at MHS. Always a kind word. Heaven has a new angel 😇.
Jennifer, what beautiful woman you were, you truly love Mike and Joel with all your heart and soul. Mike and Joel, hold on to all the good memories you had with her. Heaven got another angel for sure.
One evening Michael and myself and 2 colleagues were enjoying a few beers after work. Jen drove all the way to Kirkwood to pick Mike up. She didn’t complain, in fact she looked happy to see us!
Jen was a real saint on earth, and now she’s a true saint in heaven.
Jennifer was a beautiful soul. As lovely on the inside as on the outside. It is a comfort and assurance that she was surrounded by people in her life that appreciated, cared and loved her so much! We are hopeful we will see her again one day knowing Jesus Christ as our Lord & Savior❤️🙏 Much love and prayers continue for Mike, Joel and her precious family God bless you all!