Dorothy Elizabeth Butterfield's Obituary
Dorothy ("Dot", "GG") Elizabeth Butterfield transitioned on October 9 after 94 years of music, laughter, and love.
Her powerful soprano voice brought joy to others. She also created a choir for neighborhood children and her own. They sang in churches and nursing homes, and caroled annually at the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland where Dorothy was a supervisor in its Check Processing department before retiring. Dot enjoyed family road trips, camping, picnics, pinochle, cribbage, bowling, dancing, concerts, and the theater.
Dot made her home a place of welcome for people and critters in need. She was a life-member and multi-officeholder in the American Legion Post 469 Women's Auxiliary, marched in its color guard, donated gallons of blood, and chaperoned for the Buckeye and Caballeros Drum & Bugle Corps. Dorothy crocheted lap robes and helped run monthly bingo games for veterans at Wade Park. She advocated for education, reproductive freedom, veterans' rights, and racial and gender equity through letters to the editor and her vote. Dot knew that structural policy change is more effective than individual acts of charity.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Charles (Sr.), and daughter, Barbara. She is survived by children Warren (Barbara's twin); Charles, Jr. (Debra); Catherine (Ronald) Readinger; David (Paulette); Diana (Timothy) Tyler; and, a slew of beloved nieces, nephews, and grandchildren that stretches into the great-greats.
Private services, held at Sunset Memorial Park, were attended by loved ones who were part of Dorothy's life in her final years. Dot's family is grateful to the staff and residents of Crocker Pointe who advocated for one another and helped Dorothy find new friendships and community there in her final months. We're also thankful for all who kept in touch with her through cards, calls, and visits.
What’s your fondest memory of Dorothy?
What’s a lesson you learned from Dorothy?
Share a story where Dorothy's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Dorothy you’ll never forget.
How did Dorothy make you smile?