William Elton Butler

William Elton (Bill) Butler, of Decatur, GA, died from natural causes on September 18, 2014, at his residence. He was 92.

Bill was born on October 25, 1921, in Decatur, GA. He attended Decatur Boys High School. While working at Maynard Tire Company, he met Dorothy Bee Crockett (Dot), who, following WWII, became his wife for more than 62 years and until Dot passed on in 2009. They had two children, Gary and Jan, who have survived Bill.

During the war, Bill earned the rank of Corporal in the US Army Air Corps and was stationed with the 390th Bomb Group near London during most of service. He was a B-17 bomber aircraft mechanic. His memoirs include riveting details of life then. In a note dated June 7, 1944, (one day after Invasion Day), Bill wrote, A German kept bombing and firing his machine guns. … All of us ran for the fox holes. Boy, I got in the bottom and stayed until I was sure it was all over… We were scared and I don't care who knows it. After more than 3 years, Bill received an Honorable Discharge, and the well-deserved thanks from a proud Nation.

Bill's professional career spanned more than 30 years with the American Oil Company/AMOCO Companies, where he provided countless dealer support services. For more than 30 years since his retirement from AMOCO, Bill has remained close to his professional 'family,' many of whom will be in attendance paying their final farewells to this great friend.

Always a family man first, Daddy Bill was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He was a brave soldier, a loyal employee, and a gentle giant to everyone who knew him. Among the most peaceful, generous men the Lord has created, Bill Butler will be sorely missed.

William E. Butler's final resting place will be at Decatur Cemetery, just a few hundred yards from the house on Church Street where he was born almost 93 years ago. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Arthritis Foundation.

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