She was known throughout the region as “the Brittle Lady.”
People would come to an event around Cullman that had vendors, looking for Donna Jo Butler and her brittle booth.
Even last week, she was setting up her brittle booth at Cullman’s annual Oktoberfest. Cullman has a deep German heritage, and the Oktoberfest is a huge draw. The brittle booth has been a big attraction yearly at the Oktoberfest and at most other events in the region.
Now, the people of Cullman and the brittle lovers have lost a dear friend, and her large family has lost a cherished loved one.
Donna was leaving the Oktoberfest Thursday night, walking across U.S. Highway 31. She was struck by a car and then by a pickup truck. She did not survive the accident.
Donna died doing what she loved and was good at. The Oktoberfest will not be the same, and neither will dozens of area events that featured “Donna’s Brittle.”
When word spread about the accident and Butler’s death, area social media lit up with condolences and tributes:
“Last night, we lost a dear friend, Donna Butler, in a tragic accident. It is hard to put into words the heartbreak and sadness that comes with losing someone so special, especially when the loss happens so suddenly.”
“Donna was a wonderful friend who brought joy and kindness to so many people. She will always be remembered for her loving heart, her beautiful spirit, and, of course, her famous peanut brittle. That peanut brittle was more than just a sweet treat — it was something Donna shared with others, a little piece of her kindness that brought smiles to so many faces.”
“Those who knew Donna will carry countless memories of her in their hearts. Her laughter, friendship, generosity, and the simple things that made her who she was will never be forgotten.”
“Today, we ask everyone to please keep Donna’s family, friends, and loved ones in your prayers. Pray that God gives them strength, comfort, and peace as they face the days ahead without her.”
“Donna may be gone from this world, but the love she gave, the memories she created, and the sweetness she shared — including that famous peanut brittle — will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew her.”
“Rest in peace, Donna. You will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.” — Gold Rush Jewelers
“She found joy in making the brittle, as well as meeting people who came to buy it. Whoever came up to her brittle booth was never a stranger to her, and she greeted every customer with warmth and tenderness.” — Butler’s obituary
Visitation for Butler was Tuesday, October 6 at Hanceville Funeral Home.
Brittle would have been served at the service, but no one else knows how to make it like Donna.
Jim ‘Zig’ Zeigler is a freelance writer about the colorful and positive in Alabama — her people, places, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is a former State Auditor. You can reach him for comments at [email protected].
