Obituary of Shirley Johnson Butler

Shirley Johnson Butler, wife of the late Dr. William W. (Bill) Butler, passed away peacefully at home on October 21, 2023, after several years of declining health. She was a native of Atlanta, GA. Born, May 10, 1929. Shirley was predeceased by her parents, Sara McGee Johnson and William Isaiah Johnson; as well as her older sister, Rosalyn Johnson Glaze; brother, William Douglas Johnson; and beloved daughter, Lisa Kathleen Butler. She is survived by her son, Laurence (Larry) David Butler; niece, Lynn Glaze Pihera (Guy); dedicated care giver, Frankie Zink; and several great nieces and nephews.

After graduating from Georgia Baptist Hospital Nursing School, Shirley married Bill and began life as a Methodist minister’s wife, mother and supporter, as Bill pursued a teaching career. They relocated to Columbia, SC when Bill joined the faculty of Columbia College in 1965 and settled into a home in West Columbia, SC.

Shirley’s life in West Columbia revolved around her family, Trinity United Methodist Church and nursing at Lexington County Medical Center as an operating room nurse. Working full time, she still maintained an active life and enjoyed the activities of her children, serving in many capacities at Trinity, vacations at the beach, and the company of her friends. She was especially happy to be a Trinity Quilter, a close-knit group whose handiwork produced many beautiful pieces to help support the church ministries. She and Bill had a wonderful retreat in Saluda, NC and some of their happiest times were spent there.

Shirley was a beloved daughter, wife, mother and friend and will be remembered with love and laughter.

A memorial service will be held at Trinity on Saturday, October 28, at 3 PM.

In lieu of flowers, gifts to Trinity Methodist Church of West Columbia are suggested.