Lelia Florence Cooper Butcher, age 96, of Watson Road, Hillsboro, passed away peacefully Saturday, May 23, 2026, at her home.

Born January 9, 1930, in Fleming County, Kentucky, she was a daughter of the late Rev. Delmore Cooper and Gladys Hurst Cooper. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 71 years, Russie Walton Butcher, on August 8, 2019; two brothers, Douglas Cooper and Larry Cooper; and two sisters, Faye Brown and Jennie Adamson.

Lelia is survived by her brother-in-law, Garr Manning of Vandalia, Ohio; and numerous loving nieces and nephews including Reba (Donnie) Hedges, Linda McKee, David Butcher, Phil (Judy) Brown, Tim (Sherry) Brown, Randy (Sharon) Brown, Brian Brown, Kevin (Jay) Cooper, Russell D. (Stephanie) Cooper, Russie (Linda) Dunaway, Gladys (Terry) Bichsel, Cindy (Terry) Essex, Glenda (John) Seaman, Fred (Elizabeth) Butcher, and Junior Conley. She also leaves behind a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.

After retiring from General Motors, Lelia returned to Kentucky in 1995. She found joy in attending church, traveling, and spending time with her husband and family. A devoted Christian woman, she attended Mt. Pisgah Christian Church and lived her life guided by faith, kindness, and love for others.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals Memorial Chapel with Pastor James DeAtley and Ralph Cox officiating. Burial will follow in Newman Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Tim Brown, Timmy Brown, Phil Brown, Brian Brown, Kevin Cooper, and Russell D. Cooper.

Visitation will be held from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals, 400 Fraley Drive, Morehead, Kentucky 40351.

View memorial tribute or sign guestbook at www.northcuttandson.com