AZTEC, N.M. - Sylvia Sue Butler, 80, of Aztec, New Mexico, died June 3, 2020.

Sylvia was born, April 17, 1940, in Oneonta, the daughter of Otto Burchhardt and Marguerite (Russell) Burchhardt.

Sylvia graduated from Otego Central School. One of her many achievements and honors was being chosen state historian for the Future Homemakers of America and was invited to speak at the state conference.

Sylvia married Albert Butler in 1958, and soon started a family of four sons.

Sylvia and Al moved to El Paso, Texas, for a warmer climate and more opportunities. Sylvia became very active in her younger son's school programs, football, band and the PTA., until they graduated from Clint High School.

Sylvia loved the Southwest. Together, she and her husband enjoyed hiking, camping and exploring.

Sylvia had many interests. She was an avid reader and a very talented artist. Sylvia loved the Navajo Native American ruins and the history regarding those sites. Although Sylvia loved the West, she went home as often as possible to upstate New York, as she longed to return one day.

Sylvia had numerous jobs over the years. However, raising her family was always her love and priority.

While residing in Aztec, one of her proudest accomplishments was working on former President Barack Obama's first campaign. She was also a member of the Sierra Club, as she was very concerned about our planet and climate change.

Sylvia was a strong, compassionate and caring woman. She was generous, intelligent and a perfectionist. If one were fortunate to be her friend, her love and loyalty were endless. Sylvia was a true force of nature lighting up any room she entered and she was loved.

Sylvia is survived by her husband, Albert of 63 years; sons, Kelly of Florida, Blaine and wife, Carolina and daughter, Madison of Idaho, Christopher and wife, Lynn of California and Jason of Nevada; cousins, Andrea Guerriero of Morris, who stayed in daily contact over the years, Susan Sampson of Morris, Roger Robinson of Otego, Charles Robinson of Florida; sisters-in-law, Diana Burchhardt of New York and Mary Hoffmans of Florida; brother-in-law, Howard Butler of Sidney; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Sylvia was predeceased by her parents and brother, Robert Burchhardt.

Sylvia requested no services, only to be laid to rest in the family cemetery in Otsdawa in Otego.