William Gerald Butler

William Gerald Butler of Salem, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at the age of 84, surrounded by his loving family. Born December 31, 1940, he was known to everyone as Gerald or simply “GB.” 
Throughout his life, Gerald was the embodiment of dedication and service. After nearly 40 years of devotion to Salem Telephone Company, he retired with pride and went on to pour his time into his family, church and community and beloved friends. 
A lifelong member and deacon of Salem Baptist Church, Gerald’s faith was the cornerstone of his character. He guided others with gentle wisdom, always ready with a kind word or helping hand. To friends and neighbors, he was “Mr. Fix It” or “The Maytag Man”—if Gerald couldn’t repair something, you might as well have thrown it away. Whether it was a leaky faucet, a stubborn engine, or a creaky door, he tackled every challenge with calm confidence and a helping spirit. 
Off the clock, Gerald could often be found on the golf course. He chased birdies with the same determination he applied to every project—and once, achieved what many golfers only dream of: a hole in one. He also never missed cheering on his beloved Kentucky Wildcats basketball team. 
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Donna Porter Butler; his daughter and son-in-law, Jada Lee and Brian Lee McDaniel of Lebanon TN; his granddaughter, Francesca Scout McDaniel, also of Lebanon TN who brought him endless joy along with nieces and nephews that he loved dearly. Gerald was preceded in death by his daughter, Johnna Vic Butler, his sister and brother-in-law, Jo Frances and Bill Hailey, and his parents, William B. Butler and Geraldine Butler. 
Funeral services will be held at Boyd Funeral Directors in Salem, KY with visitation beginning at 11 AM on Monday, July 14, 2025. A celebration of Gerald’s life will follow at 1 PM. 
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Salem Baptist Food Pantry in his honor.  Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Condolences may also be left online at boydfuneraldirectors.com.