Retired Lt. Col. Joe Anthony Buttram, 79, from Flat Rock, Alabama passed away at home on July 20, 2023, at peace with the Lord and surrounded by family. Joe was born on August 18, 1943 to Jack Lane (J.L.) and Dorothy Kennemore Buttram in Henagar, Alabama. After Joe graduated from Pisgah High School in 1961, he went on to study Electrical Engineering at Auburn University as a member of the ROTC. Joe married Barbara Chisenhall in 1964, and they had one child, Sandy Amelia Buttram Grady.
After graduating from Auburn, he joined the U.S. Air Force and trained as a pilot at Selma, Alabama. He had a distinguished career as an F-4 pilot, serving during the Vietnam War and earning many commendations during his time in the Forward Air Control (FAC). During the latter part of his career in the Air Force, he flew KC-135 refueling aircraft and greatly enjoyed training and evaluating the next generation of pilots during his time with the 1st Combat Evaluation Group (CEVG) 8th Air Force.
In 1987, Joe retired from the Air Force and settled in Hollywood, Alabama where he pursued many hobbies and helped many friends and family members with remodeling and electrical projects. He enjoyed golfing, gardening, fishing, hunting, and Auburn football. He served one term as the Chairman of the Jackson County Commission.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, J.L. Buttram and Dorothy Kennemore Morgan; and beloved older brother, Wayne. He is survived by the love of his life, Barbara C. Buttram; daughter and son-in-law, Sandy and Chuck Grady; grandchildren, Kaitlin (John) Hundscheid, Ryan (Jana) Grady, Charles (Jorden) Grady, Gil (Alex) Grady, Garrett Grady, and Eion Grady; great-grandchildren, Jackson, Parker, Henry, Josie, Gabriel, Peter, and Cecil; brothers and sisters, Kelly (Shirley) Buttram, Griff (Bobby) Buttram, Jack (Sandra) Buttram, Vida Pruett, Kathy Buttram, Wilson (Jackie) Buttram, and Priscilla (Chuck) Blancett; and many nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends.
A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.
