Zelma Dean Goodlett Butler, aged 94, passed away on December 6, 2024 in Birmingham, Alabama. Dean was born in Cullman, Alabama to Murrie Greenlee Goodlett and Mary Jeanette “Nettie” Goodlett (née Allgood) on January 29, 1930, as the youngest of nine children. She married Howard Edsel Butler on June 5, 1954.
Dean’s devotion to her family and her faith in Jesus Christ were the cornerstones of her life. She is survived by her son, Jeffrey Butler (Caroline). She was predeceased by her husband of 52 years; her parents; her sisters, Melba Craft, Marcille Pattillo, Sara Goodlett, and Onice Goodlett; and brothers, Bertis Goodlett, Argin Goodlett, Troy Goodlett, and Donald Goodlett.
Dean grew up in the Gold Ridge community of Cullman and was a proud alumna of Fairview High School, Sacred Heart Junior College, and Florence State Teachers College. She taught at Woodlawn High School and Banks High School in Birmingham before returning to Cullman County to teach at West Point High School and, subsequently, Cullman Middle School. Dean spoke often of the positive influence teaching had on her. She kept many of the small gifts students gave to her over the years and treasured hearing from her students as they moved on in their lives. Dean dedicated her life to teaching physical education and biology, shaping the lives of countless students with her enthusiasm. She remained an advocate for both the value of reading and the pursuit of physical fitness throughout her life.
In accordance with Dean’s wishes, a private interment will be held at Simcoe United Methodist Church Cemetery.
As a two-time cancer survivor, cancer research was important to Dean. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the cancer research organization of your choice.
To leave condolences for the family please visit mossservicefh.com
