ORLANDO, Fla. – Mable Butler, the first African American woman elected to the Orlando City Council and the first African American elected to the Orange County Commission, has died at age 98, according to a news release from Orlando District 5 City Commissioner Shan Rose.
Butler served on Orlando’s City Council from 1984 to 1990 and on the Orange County Commission, where she represented District 6 from 1990 to 1998.
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Butler was born in Gainesville and raised in Jacksonville, Florida. After graduating from high school and marrying, she studied social service at New York City College. She relocated to Orlando in 1957 and joined Mayor Carl Langford’s biracial committee. As chair of the Housing Committee, she investigated discriminatory practices in the apartment market, prompting the establishment of the Orlando Human Relations Department.
“Momma Commissioner Mable Butler didn’t just break barriers-she shattered ceilings,” Commissioner Rose said in a social media post.
Momma Commissioner Mable Butler didn’t just break barriers-she shattered ceilings.
— Shan Rose (@ShanRose0217) September 7, 2025
As the first African American woman elected to the Orlando City Council,she paved the way for generations to come.A true trailblazer whose legacy will forever inspire!
Gone but never be forgotten pic.twitter.com/jKhan20z65
According to the release, Butler died following a brief illness, but no other information was provided.
“During her years in public office, Commissioner Butler became a fearless champion for affordable housing, fair representation, and community empowerment. She also played a pivotal role in bringing the Florida Classic to Orlando, a tradition that continues to uplift the city,” the release read in part.
Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings said in a statement that he knew Butler from childhood and owes her a debt of gratitude.
“It is with great sadness that I acknowledge the passing of Commissioner Mable Butler who I’ve known since childhood. She was my neighbor, political mentor and supporter. I owe her a debt of gratitude for helping pave the way for me to break barriers as a politician. She leaves a living legacy of commitment to service for many,” Demings said.
Florida Rep. Maxwell posted a statement on social media that read in part, “May Mable Butler rest in power. Her love for Central Florida and her fearless advocacy will live on in all of us.”