Curtis Butler was born in Thompson, Georgia to Gaylord and Pansy Butler on June 15, 1922. He was one of seven children. Curtis passed away peacefully on Monday April 9, 2018, in his Southfield, Michigan home, with son Curtis Butler Jr. by his side at the age of 95.
Curtis was the beloved husband of the late Jennie Butler for 44 years until Jennie went to be with the Lord in 1987. Devoted father of three children: Carolyn Pugh, the late Shelia Quinn, and Curtis Butler Jr. Curtis was the loving grandfather of Monica Stokes, Stephanie (Joseph) Generette, Michael Quinn, Cassaundra (Rod) Biles, and Joya Harris. Curtis was preceded in death by brothers Henry Butler, Charles Butler, Thomas Butler and sister Essie (the late Jessie) Hill. He is survived by sisters Gladys (the late Deolis) Allen and Annie Ruth (the late Frances) Henderson. Curtis was fortunate to find love a second time after the passing of Jennie. He will be deeply missed by his companion, Thelma Townsend. He leaves to cherish his memory his sisters, children, grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren.
Curtis was a proud and decorated United States Army veteran who served in Normandy, France during WWII earning numerous medals and ribbons. He continued to serve his country by having a successful career as a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service for over 30 years until he retired. Curtis had a second career as a school bus driver for Detroit Public Schools. In his retirement, he loved to go bowling and listen to Jazz music. He enjoyed photography and living a healthy lifestyle. Although he was known for his healthy eating, he could be found savoring a slice of carrot cake from time to time. However, his passion was his family. Curtis loved to be a father, grandfather, great grandfather and great-great grandfather. Having his family around him was more important than anything.
The family will receive guests for a funeral to celebrate Curtis's life on Wednesday, April 18, 2018 at Russell Street Missionary Baptist Church 8700 Chrysler Service Drive, Detroit, Michigan 48211. The service will be led by Dr. Dee Dee M. Coleman, Pastor. Military honors will be provided by the United States Army Funeral Honors Team. Curtis will be privately laid to rest with his family in Woodlawn cemetery.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared in the guestbook for the Butler family.
