Colette Butler Hamby

Colette Butler Hamby, age 91, passed away on October 21, 2015 in Decatur, GA. Born in DeKalb County on September 5, 1924, Judge Hamby was the only child of Theodore McCall Butler and the former Adel Jeanne Yvette Faurien. Educated in the public schools of Atlanta, where she graduated from Girls High, she also received private tutoring during extended visits with her grandparents in France. She would return to her beloved France many times throughout her life and considered the country of her mother's birth as her own adopted country. Descended from four centuries of lawyers and jurists, Judge Hamby from an early age resolved to pursue the family business. Upon graduating from John Marshall Law School in 1952, she opened a law office in Decatur on the site of the present courthouse, a rarity in that she was one of the few female attorneys working as a sole practitioner in Georgia. Beginning in 1954, Judge Hamby also served as a claims attorney for the State of Georgia, representing survivors of veterans. In 1961, Judge Hamby was appointed as a prosecutor in the Municipal Court of Atlanta, making her one of the few female prosecutors in the nation at the time. Later appointed to the position of Solicitor, she prosecuted violations of city violations and represented the State in preliminary hearings on misdemeanor and felony cases during the administrations of Mayors Hartsfield through Jackson. In 1983, Judge Hamby was appointed to the bench in the Recorders Court of DeKalb County. Throughout her career, Judge Hamby was deeply involved in her community especially in areas relating to improving the status of women in the law and government, veterans rights, and the Atlanta Girls Club. As an attorney and judge, she gained a widespread respect from clients, the public, and other members of the bar for her tenacity and belief that everyone deserved to be treated fairly and with respect. She also retained a lifelong interest in education, with studies at Emory, Mercer, and the Columbia Theological Seminary. In 1968, Judge Hamby married Clyde C. Hamby, an attorney and major in the Atlanta Police Department. After they retired, Judge Hamby and her husband moved to Hiawassee, Georgia, where they lived on Lake Chatuge and were able to enjoy activities such as boating and water skiing. Following her husband's death, Judge Hamby retuned to DeKalb County, where she continued to be active in her church and community, enjoyed social activities with her many friends, and pursued her love and passion for animals. Judge Hamby had a profound effect on those persons she encountered during her life, and she leaves many friends who are the better for having known her. Her philosophy is best summarized in her own words: I have learned through my experiences that there are no absolutes in life; that tragedy and unhappiness come to everyone and that we can convert our energies in a constructive or a destructive manner; that man is happier when he works hard, does his best, and treats his fellow man right; and further it is vital to constantly read and learn to remain viable and young at heart, but at the same time balance one's life with recreation, rest and reflection. A memorial service celebrating Judge Hamby's life will be held on October 24, 2015 in the chapel of A. S. Turner and Sons with Rev. Larry Burgess officiating. Friends will be received one hour prior to the service. There are no immediate survivors. A. S. Turner and Sons Funeral Home and Crematory



Funeral Home:
A.S. Turner
2773 N. Decatur Road
Decatur, GA
30033