July 22, 1941 – October 8, 2021
David Clark “Butch” Mosely, Jr., 80, of Climax, GA, passed away at home Friday, October 8, 2021.
The memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 16, 2021, at Shady Grove Farm with Rev. Lynn Hurley officiating.
The family will receive friends immediately following the service. Online visitors may sign the guest register at www.bryantfuneralga.com. Memorial donations may be made to Climax United Methodist Church (210 West Broad Street Climax, GA 39834) or to the David C. “Butch” Mosely Educational Scholarship Fund at Bainbridge High School (One Bearcat Blvd, Bainbridge, GA 39819)
David Clark Mosely, Jr. was born July 22, 1941, at the old Bainbridge Hospital, the son of David Clark Mosely, Sr. & Rosalie Evans Mosely. He was a graduate of Climax High School, Class of 1959. He started his post-secondary academic career in Americus on a basketball scholarship. Butch attended ABAC, and earned his undergraduate degree from The University of Georgia, his specialist degree from Valdosta State University, and his doctorate from Nova Southeastern University. His career in education spanned decades and impacted educators and students from every corner of the State of Georgia. The PE teacher at Pelham High School became the boys and girls basketball coach. He served as principal of Whigham Public Schools, and as superintendent for Decatur County Schools, Vidalia City Schools, and Glynn County Schools. Butch worked as interim superintendent in Carrollton, Douglas, Camilla, and Dougherty County. His passion for education and his no non-sense approach to making things happen resulted in Butch being named 1999 Superintendent of the Year. He was elected to represent his constituents in Climax as a Decatur County Commissioner. Later, he worked with SWGA RESA and was also appointed to the State Board of Education where he continued to serve as a voice for both educators and students in the state.
A “good ol’ boy” by all definitions, Butch loved his people especially when there was a gathering. Gatherings sometimes had a purpose (reunions, football games, eating meetings, or card games) but sometimes just happened because, well where two or more are gathered… Butch had a strong faith and a desire to serve. He was a faithful member of Climax United Methodist Church and volunteered countless hours on various committees throughout the years.
Without a doubt his family came first. With as much certainty, you knew when he wasn’t in the office, he was on the farm. Butch loved everything about farm life particularly his animals: dogs, cats, chickens, cows, guineas, horses, donkeys, and whatever else moseyed up. He enjoyed golf, fishing, hunting and naturally the gatherings that ensued. Georgia football and Braves baseball brought on lively conversations and, of course, those seasonal gatherings.
Butch had an almost irresistible urge to shop. He bought everything from clothing to classic cars. He sometimes wound up with several of an item and tried to gift the extras to his children and grandchildren. “He could not resist a “Buy one get one free” offer. Never a dull moment in eight decades filled with wit, a unique sense of humor, and wisdom.
Survivors include his wife of 54 years, June Cox Mosely; his children, Sylena & David Wiggins and John David & Marie Mosely. He was known as “PapaDoc” to his grandchildren: Anna Lee & Tanner Walker, Clark David Wiggins, Madison Mosely Wiggins, Hannah Marie Mosely, Taylor Evans Mosely, Callie Korman Mosely, and Anne Harris Mosely. Butch was preceded in death by his parents.
Bryant Funeral Home, located at 105 N. Florida Street, is assisting the family with arrangements. (229-246-3321)
Thoughts and prayers to the family.
I am sadden to my core with his passing. I remember Butch so fondly. My grandparents were best friends with Uncle Dave and Aunt Rosalie. They all were so proud of him. I remember so many things I can never post them. June, Selina and John David, I grieve with you. I’m sending all my love and prayers. In all of his accomplishments he remained CLIMAX TIGER!!
It is difficult for me to find the words to express myself about Butch’s death. We went to school together from the fifth grade. We was not real close friends but true friends. I was not ready for his death it was a complete surprise and it touched me deeply. I wish his dad could have seen his accomplishments, and there were many. l admired him so much.
I worked as a principal under Hutch in Glynn County. He was A hard worker dedicated to children. He was very supportive of me as an administrator. June and family i am so sorry for your loss. God Bless all of you as you go forward. He will be missed.
Dear June, Sylena and John David, I am so sorry for your loss. Butch was a good friend as well as all of you. He was such a part of Climax. There are so many memories of growing up and he was there in the middle of all those memories. RIP Butch, you have always done a good job it’s your time to rest! Peace and comfort for all the loved ones you have left behind.