Suzanne Cecil Chandler Butler

Suzanne Cecil Chandler Butler was born in Richmond, VA on December 31, 1945, to Oliver Patrick Chandler, Jr. and I.V. Cecil Talley Chandler. She passed away at the home of her daughter and son-in-law, Sullivan and Kurt Kellum, on Monday, May 26, 2025, at the age of 79.

She attended Sullins College in Bristol, VA and the University of Georgia. While attending UGA, she met the love of her life, Philip Sanford Butler, at a sorority and fraternity social. Phil was standing at the bottom of the staircase at the Phi Mu House at UGA. When Suzanne walked down the staircase and got to the bottom, Phil grabbed her hand and asked, “what’s your blood type?” She answered, “why would you ask that? He replied, “because I’m going to marry you!” Six weeks later they married in Roxboro, NC and enjoyed 51 years of marriage before his death on July 12, 2017. Suzanne and Phil owned and operated Townler Corporation for many years.

She was a world traveler, with Italy being her all-time favorite place. Suzanne was known for her epicurean skills and her ability to decorate like no other. She will be fondly remembered for her classiness, style, and grace. She truly was loved by all who knew her.

Suzanne leaves behind her children: Sullivan Butler Kellum (Kurt), Philip Sanford Butler, II, and Dr. Samantha Butler Benson (Chuck); grandchildren: Matthew Butler Burnette (Mecessa), Mary Megan Kellum, Hannah Butler Cummings (Wes), Brooklyn Gayle Butler, Charles Fredrick Benson, IV, Madelyn Suzanne Benson, and Chandler Maxwell Benson; and great-grandchildren: Matthew Chase Helms, Collins Cate Burnette, and Thomas Wesley Cummings, IV.

As per her request, no services are being held.

In lieu of flowers, one can donate in her name to the National Kidney Foundation, www.kidney.org.

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at berryfh.com.

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is assisting the family of Suzanne Cecil Chandler Butler.