Lydia Ordell Butts

Lydia “Ordell” Butts was born on December 23, 1944, in Virginia Beach (formerly known as Princess Anne County) to the late Curtis and Zelma Butts. She was predeceased by her beloved siblings: Maggie I. Parker, Herman J. Butts, John C. Butts, and Dorothy M. Jordan.

Ordell’s love for learning and adventure shaped her remarkable journey. She attended Union Kempsville High School before earning her Bachelor’s degree in English and Spanish from Norfolk State University. With a heart for service and a desire to make a difference, she joined the Peace Corps, where she shared her knowledge and service with the world. Her time in the Peace Corps took her to far-reaching places such as Malaysia, the Philippines, Hawaii, and beyond—expanding her perspective and deepening her appreciation for diverse cultures.

During her time abroad, Ordell developed a deep fondness for cooking, mastering a plethora of recipes inspired by the regions she visited. She found joy in creating meals that brought loved ones together. Her dishes were always made with care and shared with love—a reflection of her generous spirit.

After her years of service, Ordell moved to Atlanta, where she continued to build a life centered around learning, service, and community. Eventually, she returned to Virginia Beach to lovingly care for her father—a testament to her selfless devotion to family.

Ordell went on to share her passion for knowledge with her local community, working at the Joint-Use Library, where she continued to expand her love for knowledge and connection. She was also known as the “Paper Lady,” delivering newspapers with unwavering dedication—regardless of the rain, sleet, snow, or shine. Ordell was also a lifetime member of Piney Grove Baptist Church, where she served faithfully in the Cathedral Choir, Love Choir and Voices of Praise lifting her voice in praise and worship.

Beyond her professional life, Ordell’s greatest impact was on her family. She was a source of wisdom, warmth, and encouragement to her nieces and nephews. She took genuine interest in their lives, offering gentle guidance, unwavering support, and unconditional love. Her presence at family gatherings brought comfort, and her words of wisdom left lasting imprints on the hearts of generations to come.

Ordell leaves behind a family who adored her, including her brother-in-law, James Jordan; sister-in-law, Hellen Butts; a devoted family of nephews: Kermit “Mike” Jordan (Dorothy), Rodger “Rod” Jordan (Felicia), Gerald Jordan (Laniece), Tyrone “Tony” Jordan (Dinah), Terry Butts (Christy), Carlton Butts; and nieces: Sylvia Etheridge (Ernest) and Diana “Lynn” Mullen (John). She is also fondly remembered by her many great-nieces and nephews, great-great-nieces and nephews, great-great-great nieces and nephews, and extended family and friends, who will carry her lessons of kindness, resilience, and love with them.

During her brief illness, Ordell was surrounded by her close family members, who offered their love, care, presence, and prayer in her final days.

Ordell glorified God by her heart for service, people, and family. Ordell’s life was a testament to the power of family, education, knowledge, and love. Her graceful presence, generous heart, and enduring influence will be profoundly missed but lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.