Mayor Teri Johnston honored Mother Jerline E. Sands Butler Day

Mayor Teri Johnston and the City Commission last night honored one of the city’s most senior and most loved citizens. Mother Jerline E. Sands Butler, the daughter of Bahamian immigrants, was born in Key West in 1915.

Mother Butler was surrounded by family as the proclamation, naming October 16th as Mother Jerline E. Sands Butler Day, was read. Married to Robert Henry Butler in 1936, she is the mother of six, grandmother of 21, great grandmother to 47 and great-great grandmother to 32.

“Inspired by the example and the guidance of Mother Butler, four generations have grown to become members of the clergy, noted musicians, champion athletes, and beloved educators,” reads the proclamation, “attaining high standards in each of their chosen professions, improving their communities, earning the respect and admiration of many by making the world a little better.”

Mother Butler remained a faithful member of the St. Stephens AME Zion Church until its closing, teaching Sunday school there for many years. She is now the eldest Sands or Butler family member living today and as such is the eldest surviving member of Trinity Wesleyan Methodist Church’s founding families.

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