Donald Butts died on November 26, 2024, due to complications from cancer and chemotherapy treatment.

Donald was born in Closter, New Jersey on January 13, 1952. He graduated from Davidson College with a BA in history in 1974 and earned his PhD in history from Duke University in 1978. Donald met his wife, Nancy Butts, when both were at Duke University. Donald moved to Barnesville to teach at what was then Gordon College and remained there until his retirement in 2017. At Gordon, Donald taught several generations of students—sometimes from the same family—and was well-regarded by his students for his ability to bring the lessons of history to life. Donald loved playing golf and relished spending his Sundays at the local course, which he often referred to as “Our Lady of Deer Trail.” He also loved the Newfoundland dogs that all of Barnesville saw him walk, morning and night, for many years. And though he would never admit it, he also loved the few cats that wandered into his yard—as proven by the fact that Donald was the one who first fed them.

Donald is survived by his son, Evan; and his three siblings, John, Bert, and Mary. Those wishing to honor Donald can send donations in his name to the Barnesville chapter of the Dolly Goodpuppy Society.

Messages of condolence may be left at www.GeorgiaCremation.com. The Butts family is being assisted by Georgia Cremation, 1086 Highway 54 West, Fayetteville.