Idotha Bootsie Neal., 68, transitioned peacefully Sunday, January 24, 2021 at the Kettering Medical Center in Kettering, OH with her loving daughter Erica valiantly managing her care. Bootsie was born on September 9, 1952 in Newbern, AL, she grew up in Buffalo, NY. Bootsie later moved to Dayton, OH where she resided for more than 47 years. She was a 1970 graduate of East High School Buffalo, NY, she earned her Bachelor degree from Howard University, Washington, D.C. and her Master’s degree from the University of Dayton. Ms. Neal began her career by working for the late C. J. McLin. He urged her to run for a political office. In 1991 she was elected as the first African American female City of Dayton Commissioner where she served for 12 years. Ms. Neal served as Director of Central State University West, Dayton Campus and also served as Director of Wright Dunbar, Inc. where she retired in 2014. Idotha M. Neal was affectionately known by her family name “Bootsie”. She was a faithful and devoted member of Mt. Enon Missionary Baptist Church where she served on numerous committees. Bootsie was a proud member of The Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Bootsie was preceded in death by both parents, Willie and Connie Williams; sister Connie Jean Spentz and two brothers Frank Robinson and Eddie Robinson. Those left to cherish her memory include Bootsie’s loving and devoted daughter Erica and oh how she loved her mother! Her brother Jackie Robinson (Elaine) and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws, numerous friends and extended family, citizens of Dayton, OH and her Mt. Enon Church family. We are thankful for the precious and fun memories of "Bootsie" and will truly, truly miss her! Services to celebrate the life of Idotha M. Bootsie Neal will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, January 30, 2021 at Mt. Enon Missionary Baptist Church., 1501 W. Third Street, Dayton, OH 45402, Pastor Cory J. Pruitt presiding. The services will be live streamed by connecting to Mt. Enon Website. The family will receive friends from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. Interment Woodland Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to the Thomas Funeral Home 4520 Salem Ave., Dayton, OH.