Doyle Butler

Doyle Butler, a Pensacola son who dedicated much of his remarkable life to his beloved hometown, passed away at age 85 on Sunday, Jan. 2, 2022.

Butler was born on May 3, 1936, to Katherine Hutto and Ray K. Butler in Mississippi and moved to Pensacola's East Hill as a small child at the beginning of World War II. Butler, who graduated Pensacola High School in 1955, was a lifeguard on Pensacola Beach before becoming one of the early residents of Gulf Breeze proper.

He spent decades as an entrepreneur in car dealerships, mobile home manufacturing and real estate before retiring in the 1990s. But, in true Doyle Butler fashion, he launched a second career when he obtained a master's degree in his late 50s.

He went on to work in environmental engineering for Escambia County for 22 years, recognized widely for his work conserving the ecosystems and waterways of the region. He retired again in 2015, allowing him to spend more time fishing in the Gulf of Mexico and laughing with the family and friends who loved him so dearly.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Donald Butler; wife, Blanche Butler; first wife, Joyce Butler; and son, Russell Butler. Those left to remember his quick wit, brilliant mind and enormous heart are daughters, Donna Butler Ryan (Charles), Cinda Fiveash (Randy), and Charley Taylor; sister, Patricia Butler Carlson; eight grandchildren including Jacquelyn Ryan and Joanna Ryan; many great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; and a host of friends and extended family.

Visitation will be from 1 pm until the funeral service begins at 2 pm on Friday, Jan. 7, 2022, at Rose Lawn Funeral Home, 2942 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563.