James Henry Butterfield

James Henry Butterfield, affectionately known as Jim, was born on May 13, 1944, in New York and passed away after an extended illness on April 28, 2023, in Dothan, Alabama. Jim was a generous, faith-filled, and selfless man who touched the lives of many through his dedication to his family, church, and community.

A celebration of Jim's life will be held at 11 am on Monday, May 1, 2023 at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Ray Jones officiating. Jim will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park with military honors. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday from 9:30-11 am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to The Gideon's International, www.gideons.org/donate.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of many years, Dianne Butterfield, and his children: Taylor (Alex) Kirkland, Todd (Terri) Kirkland, David (Darcy) Butterfield, Mark (Kim) Butterfield, and Justin (Ginger) Martin. He was a proud grandfather to Corey Butterfield, Casey Hendricks, Phillip Butterfield, Lauren Butterfield, Sam Butterfield, Justine Tew, Tiffany Fuqua, Carson Kirkland, Conner Kirkland, Rachel Kirkland, and Addy Mae Kirkland. Jim also had the joy of being a great-grandfather to Holland Butterfield, Camden Smith, Jade Tew, and Sadie Fuqua. He is fondly remembered by his nieces and nephews, John Davis, Carol Bullock, and Keith Davis. Jim is preceded by his loving sister, Ruth Davis.

Jim's commitment to his country began when he served in the US Air Force. Following his military service, he went on to work as a mechanic and co-owner of Southside Auto in Dothan, Alabama, for 40 years. This profession allowed him to combine his love for old cars with his strong work ethic, as he became a respected figure in the Dothan community.

An enthusiastic traveler, Jim enjoyed driving through the beautiful landscapes of the United States, with the beach and mountains being among his favorite destinations. He was a member of Ridgecrest Baptist Church, where he was a member of Johnny Oppert Sunday School classes and participated in mission trips. Jim's faith was the cornerstone of his life, and he was always eager to serve his church and community in any way he could.

One of Jim's most memorable acts of service occurred on September 11, 2001, when he traveled to New York City to cook food for the workers responding to the tragic events of that day. This selfless act was just one example of the many ways in which Jim demonstrated his love and care for others.

Jim was also actively involved in the Cub Mobile Derby since 1976, even chairing the event in the late 1970s. His dedication to this event and the joy it brought to the children who participated was a testament to his kind-hearted nature. Additionally, Jim was an active member of the Gideon Bible organization, further showcasing his commitment to spreading the message of faith and hope.

Jim's life was marked by his unwavering devotion to his family, friends, and community. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of love, generosity, and service will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

 

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