Ralph Cortez Butler, 91, of Edmonton passed away June 19, 2012. After graduating from Tompkinsville High School, Cortez attended Lindsey Wilson College, where he met his wife of 68 years, Ruth Sewell.   He left LWC to serve as a Naval officer and pilot in World War II.  Following WWII, he resumed his education at Tennessee Tech, then took a position as a teacher and basketball coach at Marrowbone High School. Cortez and his family eventually moved to Metcalfe County, where he enjoyed many years as a teacher, guidance counselor, and basketball coach at Metcalfe County High School.  Throughout his life, Cortez maintained a strong commitment to church, family, and community.

He was an active member of the Edmonton United Methodist Church and completed daily devotionals.   For as long as his health permitted, he enjoyed going out daily to have coffee, pick up mail, and visit with friends and community members.   Sunday lunches and vacations with his family remained a priority to the end of his life.  He is preceded in death by his parents Billy and Fannie McCreary Butler; eight brothers:  Bernard, Adas, Albert, Kenneth, Bob, Estie, Cleotis, and Eugene Butler; son in law  Jim Coleman.

He is survived by his wife Ruth Sewell Butler; daughter, Connie Coleman; son Tez Butler; three granddaughters, Heather Coleman, Holly Coleman Boling, and Heidi Coleman; and two great grandsons, Coleman and Cabot Boling.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Thursday at Butler Funeral Home in Edmonton with burial in the Edmonton Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 3:00 PM until 8:00 PM  Wednesday and after 9:00 AM  Thursday  at the funeral home.