Elizabeth Ann “Betty” Kotzebue

Elizabeth Ann “Betty” Kotzebue was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Wednesday, April 13, 2022, at the age of 87.

Betty was born to the late Julius William and Mary Caka Zissa on June 18, 1934, in Shiner. She lived on the family farm until she fell in love and married the love of her life, the late Alexander A. “Buddy” Kotzebue, on December 28, 1954, in Shiner. They moved to the Houston area for some time, and then relocated to Gonzales. They opened the family-owned business, Kotzebue Drug Store, where she worked up until her retirement. Her selflessness and generosity were two traits that highlighted her personality. She touched the lives of so many people throughout her career at the pharmacy. 

Betty had a green thumb when it came to plants. Her hobbies and interests included gardening, bowling, cards, and dominos. She had a deep love for her family and her strong Catholic faith. Betty was a member of the St. James Catholic Church, where she was active in the Alter Society and the Catholic Daughters. 

We will remember Betty for her loving nature, her playfulness, feistiness, and her occasional endearing stubbornness. The door of her home was always open to numerous kids growing up to gather and play pool and games, watch TV, listen to music, and just hang out. 

Betty is survived by her daughter, Diane Connell and husband Robbie of Gonzales, sister, Benita Roller and husband Joe of Shiner, grandchildren, Kristen Connell DeCola, Zackery, Chase, Cassidy, and Caleigh Kotzebue, and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, sons, Doug, Dwayne, and David Kotzebue, sister, Agnes Zissa, and brother, Daniel Zissa. 

A visitation will take place on Thursday, April 21, 2022, from 5 until 7 PM in Seydler-Hill Funeral Home, with a rosary to be recited at 7 PM. A funeral mass will be held on Friday, April 22, 2022, at 10:00 AM in the St. James Catholic Church, with Father Jason Martini officiating. Interment will follow in the St. Josephs Catholic Cemetery in Moulton. Pallbearers include: Zackery Kotzebue, Chase Kotzebue, Pat Roller, Kenny Roller, Mike Lawler, and Richard Zissa. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the St. James Catholic Church. 

Friends and family may leave their condolences and sign the guestbook by visiting www.seydlerhillfuneralhome.come. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Seydler-Hill Funeral Home.