Elsie Ruth Butler

Elsie Ruth Butler, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2023, in Okeechobee, Florida, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on December 28, 1940, in Tampa, Florida, to the late Dorothy (Stalls) and Percy Higginbotham, Elsie was a radiant beam of love, faith, and humor who touched the lives of all who knew her.

Elsie was preceded in death by her grandson, Branson Butler, beloved sisters, Margaret Mingle, Louellen Kelly, Dorothy "Dottie" Sanders, and Elizabeth Oglesby, and is survived by her siblings, Betty Lancaster, Arlin Mitchell, and Allen Higginbotham, many nieces, and nephews, cousins and friends.

Elsie was the proud mother of Butch (Ronda) Butler, Karen Vignone, and Kathy (David) McCormack. She was a devoted grandmother to Colby (Nicole) Harden, Katie Harden, Leighann (Matt) Crawford, Jeffrey Lightsey, Ethan (Nancy) Lightsey, and Rachael (Josh) Aubrey. Elsie was also blessed with 11 great-grandchildren, with one more on the way. Her family was her life, and she poured her love and faith into each of them.
Elsie dedicated her professional life to serving her community as a data processor for the Polk County Sheriff's Department, from where she retired after many years of service.
She was a woman of strong faith. She had a quick wit and a loving nature, which brought joy to those around her. Elsie was thoughtful about her appearance and never left the house without her hair and nails done to perfection. Her vibrant personality and faith-filled spirit will be deeply missed.
Elsie Butler's life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and family. She was a woman who lived her life with grace and courage, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter. Her memory will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate to know her.

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