News Summary
Mable Butler, a trailblazing civil rights advocate and former commissioner in Orlando, has passed away at 98. As the first Black woman elected to both the Orlando City Commission and the Orange County Commission, Butler dedicated her life to fighting racial inequality and promoting affordable housing. Her legacy includes significant contributions to the local economy and cultural events, leaving an indelible mark on Central Florida.
Orlando – Former Orlando and Orange County commissioner Mable Butler passed away at the age of 98 due to complications from lung cancer. Butler’s death marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to civil rights advocacy and public service, leaving behind a significant legacy in Central Florida.
Butler was a pioneering political figure, being the first Black woman elected to the Orlando City Commission, where she served from 1984 to 1990. Her trailblazing efforts continued as she became the first Black person elected to the Orange County Commission, serving from 1990 to 1998. Throughout her career, Butler focused on addressing issues of racial inequality, affordable housing, and job opportunities for Black citizens in the region.
Born in 1927 in Gainesville, Florida, Butler was raised in Jacksonville, where she graduated from high school. She pursued studies in social service at New York City College before moving to Orlando in 1957. Her journey into civic engagement began with her involvement in a biracial committee established by former Orlando Mayor Carl Langford, tackling housing discrimination in the city.
As the chair of the Housing Committee, Butler was instrumental in investigating discriminatory housing practices. Her efforts contributed to the establishment of the Orlando Human Relations Department, designed to combat discrimination and promote equity within the community. Butler’s commitment to social justice resonated throughout her political career, setting a standard for future public servants.
In addition to her work on housing issues, Butler played a significant role in boosting the local economy and fostering cultural events. One of her notable contributions was facilitating the Florida Classic in Orlando, a beloved annual football event that celebrates African American culture and unity within the community.
Despite her retirement, Butler remained a passionate advocate for social justice and often reflected on her legacy. In a 2022 interview, she expressed her hope to be remembered for her love for others and the positive impact she had on many lives. Her home showcased a dedicated space filled with plaques, awards, and recognitions highlighting her extensive career in public service.
Butler was also active in community service initiatives throughout her life, including participation in the Meals on Wheels program during the 1970s and 1980s, which provided essential nutritional support for those in need in the Orlando area.
Her contributions to the community have not gone unnoticed, with various streets and buildings in Orlando named in her honor, serving as a lasting tribute to her impact on the city. Following her passing, Florida Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost expressed his sorrow and paid tribute to Butler’s memory and her invaluable contributions to Central Florida.
Butler’s life serves as an inspiration for future generations, demonstrating the profound effects of dedicated public service and advocacy. Throughout her career, she championed the responsibilities of elected officials and encouraged others to follow in her footsteps, furthering the fight for civil and human rights.
The memories and contributions of Mable Butler will continue to resonate in Orlando and Central Florida, reminding community members of the importance of standing up for equality and serving the public with purpose and compassion.
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- WFTV: Mable Butler First Black Woman Orlando City Council Dies at 98
- Wikipedia: Mable Butler
- Click Orlando: Mable Butler Trailblazing Former Commissioner Dies at 98
- Google Search: Mable Butler
- Your Community Paper: The Honorable Mable Butler
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mable Butler
- My News 13: Former Commissioner Mable Butler Dies
- Google News: Mable Butler Orlando
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
