Gerald Bottoms
Gerald Doyle Bottoms, age 95, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026 leaving behind a legacy of service, intellect, and deep love for family. He was born on April 10, 1930, in Holdenville, Oklahoma, to Edgar and Lorene Bottoms, and was a 1948 graduate of Spaulding High School. He was preceded in death by his siblings Leon Bottoms and Mildred Bottoms Edwards and his beloved wife, Maxine Lee Bottoms, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and devotion.
Gerald was a proud father to three children: Glenda Secor (Randy) of Huntington Beach, California; Steve Bottoms (Lisa) of San Anselmo, California; and Christie Alfred (Richie) of Dallas, Texas. He was a devoted grandfather to Jennifer Kilby (Chris), Matt Secor, Amanda Turner (Anthony), and Ashley Alfred. His joy multiplied as a great-grandfather to Ethan and Madison Kilby. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews, as well as cherished lifetime friends.
After joining the Oklahoma National Guard at 16 years old, Gerald proudly served his country in the Korean Conflict as a Sergeant First Class earning a Bronze Star for his meritorious service. The best outcome was his ability to use the GI Bill to fund his education.
Gerald dedicated his professional life to education. He received his bachelor’s degree in biology from East Central Oklahoma State in 1955. He & Maxine taught at Holdenville High School from 1955-63. He received his master’s degree in 1959 and his Ph.D. in 1966 both in physiology from Oklahoma State University. He began his career at Purdue University in July 1966 as an assistant professor. He also served as an assistant dean of the Purdue University Graduate School.
Gerald’s career at Purdue resulted in numerous published articles, lecturing internationally, extensive research grants and mentoring graduate students. His outstanding service was acknowledged when he received the Alumni Faculty Award for excellence. He retired with the title of professor emeritus of veterinary physiology. After retirement, he and Maxine settled in Cedar Hill, Texas, where he continued to live life fully.
Beyond his academic achievements and military honors, Gerald was known as an incredible handyman and mechanic - there was little he couldn’t fix. One of his greatest passions was flying, and as a private pilot, he found both freedom and joy in the skies.
Above all, Gerald loved life. He loved to travel, cherished his children and family, and found joy in time spent with those he loved. His warm smile could light up a room, and his gentle spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Gerald’s life was well lived, and he will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever honored by those whose lives he touched.
Gerald’s oral history interview as a Professor Emeritus at Purdue University is available on YouTube.
The celebration of life will be at 2 PM on April 18th at Hudson-Phillips Funeral Home in Holdenville, Oklahoma. The family welcomes anyone who knew Gerald to attend.
Services are under the direction of Hudson-Phillips Funeral Home in Holdenville, Oklahoma.
