William Arnold Butcher

SMYRNA - Elder William Arnold Butcher, age 99, of Smyrna, was born to the late Elizabeth and Andrew Butcher on Jan. 2, 1912, and peacefully departed this life on July 9, 2011, at the family home surrounded by family and God's gracious mercy. Arnold received his early education in the Smyrna area and helped support his family by shining shoes and working in a pool hall, where he learned the game. Accepting the responsibility of a provider, he worked numerous jobs during his young adult life including employment at the Aberdeen Proving Ground, cooking at the Wayside Inn, and delivering feed at the local mill. At the age of 18, he gave his life to Christ and joined Little Mt. Olive Pentecostal Church, where he met his future bride, Beatrice Wayman. On Sept. 15, 1936, they were married and that union produced 14 children. Arnold continued in his service of the Lord by teaching Sunday School and playing the organ. He will always be known for his memorable drum solos. He became an Elder, and eventually, the Pastor of his beloved church. He retired as custodian from the Clayton School District in 1976, and spent the rest of his life dedicated to his family and his church. Throughout Arnold's lifetime, he enjoyed such hobbies as swimming, playing checkers, traveling, visiting friends, cooking his annual treats (palm cakes, donuts, sticky buns, root beer, and ginger beer), taking pictures, and telling stories to the family. Arnold lived his life according to the word of God and laid this foundation in his family and community. He was preceded in death by his wife Beatrice Wayman Butcher and one son, Delancey Butcher. Arnold leaves to cherish his memory six sons, Paul (JoAnn), Clarence (Elaine), James (Rose), Richard, Darryl, and Aaron (Linda); seven daughters, Hester (Willie), Lucille, Patsy, Renea, Rochelle (Sherwood), Marilyn, and Valerie (Craig); one sister, Louise Sudler; 44 grandchildren; 82 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; six brothers-in-law; ten sisters-in-law; special friends, Stephen Lee, Harvey and Liz Riley; Sonny and Maola Watson; John Doughty; and Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Mitchell; and his caregiver Darlene Stevenson. Funeral service will be held Saturday, July 16, at Mt. Olive Pentecostal Church, Corner of North and East Street, Smyrna, with viewing two hours prior. Also, a viewing Friday, July 15 at the church from 6 to 8 p.m. Interment will be in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Smyrna. Letters of condolence may be sent, and guestbook may be signed at www.benniesmithfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are being handled by Bennie Smith Funeral Home, Dover.