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Charles D. Butts Jr.

1946 - 2009

BORN

1946

DIED

2009

Charles Butts Obituary

Charles D. Butts Jr., 63, passed away Thursday, Sept. 17, 2009, after a courageous three-year battle with multiple myeloma.
Memorial service: 11 a.m. Wednesday at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 4301 Meadowbrook Drive, Fort Worth.
Memorials: In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Charlie to the American Cancer Society; St. Luke's in the Meadow Episcopal Church; or The Oakridge School, 5900 W. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington, Texas 76013.
Charlie was born on Feb. 28, 1946, in Wichita Falls. In 1969, he married the love of his life, Susan Willmington, and they had two daughters, Jennifer and Sarah. He was the former owner of Civil Court Services, Inc., and was one of the founding members and first chairman of the board of The Oakridge School in Arlington. Charlie was a faithful member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Fort Worth.
He will be remembered for his incredible wit and sense of humor, his ability to find the joy in every day and the humor in the mundane, as well as his unrelenting love for his family.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Asad Dean, Julie Hughes, the staff at Texas Oncology, and his caregivers at Baylor All Saints Hospital.
Survivors: His loving wife, Susan; daughters, Sarah Butts and Jennifer Beck and her husband, Gregory; grandchildren, Anna Grace, Claire and Henry Beck; father, Charles Butts Sr. and wife, Shirley; brother, Robert and wife, Carol; sister, Diana and husband, Ron, and family; mother-in-law, Dora Willmington; brothers-in-law, Barry and David Willmington and families; and countless other family members and friends.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Star-Telegram on Sep. 20, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Charles Butts

Sponsored by Justice Shirley Butts and Charlie Butts, Sr..

Not sure what to say?





Bob Butts

September 14, 2021

Miss you, Dana.

judy Kay Seaberry

January 3, 2017

What a Gift: Charlie Butts; I found happiness, and alive, self-sharing, un-selflinness of the joy of life each time his smile and laughter walked into any of the Three District Clerks Offices that I worked in. I missed him when any span of absence occurred. Still miss him even though he left us a couple of years before I retired 3 years ago. So thankful he was blessed with his Beautiful Red-Headed, God Given Wife and Loving Family. Happiest Memories Always of Charlie Butts; "A Really Great Guy"! Judy Kay Seaberry, Retired Deputy District Clerk Employee

Bob Butts

May 20, 2015

May 20, 2015

May 20, 2015

Your Little Brother

June 21, 2014

I miss you, Dana.

Linda Pruitt

June 18, 2014

RIP

February 24, 2014

Monday, February 24, 2014
My Dear Son Dana,
Your old Dad (age 92+) just completed reading ALL of the sentiments on your guest book and I want you to know how very proud of you I am, as is Shirley. Your courage in the many arduous months of your illness is an inspiration to anyone with any problem, large or small. Know, my son that I love you and wish that we could start our lives over and travel life on this Earth more together. Please give the Good Lord a kind word for your old Dad, my Son. Much, much love,
Dad (Charles D.(Charlie)Butts, SR.

February 24, 2014

February 28, 2014 Dear Dana, I have not forgotten your birthday and want you to know that your Dad loves you and one day we will get to see one another again as well as Papa and Nanan and your dear Mother and other loved ones. Love, Dad

Charles Butts

December 29, 2011

My Dear Dana, so much water has gone under the bridge since last we chatted that I don't know where to start. For instance, on May 1st, I fell and broke my upper left thigh bone and spent a month in the hospital, however, that has mended pretty well. Then, on September 29th I had an operation on my right knee to repair some damage to my right meniscus (sp)? which set me back a bit. I am taking re-hab therapy twice a week and am now able to walk with a cane instead of the walker. Shirley is pretty well and, thank Goodness has been able to put up with my infirmities. On a happy note, I was inducted on June 10th into the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Hall of Fame, an honor of which I am both grateful and proud. Also, I hit the big "90" on June 30th and indeed am so glad that God has blesed me through all these years. Shirley and I spent Christmas at home and enjoyed smoked turkey and trimmings. God has been and is good to us and I am so grateful for my blessings, not the least of which, MY ELDEST SON is you. Must go .. I know you are thankful to our LORD in Heaven to be with your dear Mother, Nan Nan and Papa and all. I miss you, Dana and love you dearly.
Ever, DAD

shanna maclin

October 10, 2011

Hi brother its been to long sorry abt just been movin to new apt in vegas nv know dad really missin you like crazy you left to soon everyone miss you 24\7 love you bro

Diana

September 16, 2011

Dana, I cannot believe it has been 2 years since I last heard your laugh or one of your jokes. Where does the time go? Michelle is getting married next weekend and I so wish you would be there. It is hard to realize that she is all grown up now and that I am old enough to have a married daughter! The wedding is in one of our pastures and there will be about 260 people so please make sure the sun is shining that day! I will think of it as your bright smile! I miss you my dear brother more than you know. Love you always, Tinse.

Charles Butts

September 8, 2011

Hello,My Eldest, my Dear Dana,

I am having my right knee operated on (not a replacement but akin to that) on September 28th so,please say a little prayer for me. Robert is having some work done on his old body also on the 20th so, both of us are praying to our Lord in Heaven for good recovery as may be His Will. I just wanted to say "hello", my Son and let you know how much you are missed and loved by your old Dad. Shirley sends her love as well.

Ever, Dad

Charles Butts

July 10, 2011

July 10, 2011
My Dear Dana,
A lot has happened since my April 25th comments. On May 1st I had a bad fall on the concrete slab by our back gate resulting in a broken upper thigh bone. I was in the hospital until May 24th and have been using a walker since but am getting better. On June 10th the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers (TCDLA) inducted me into TCDLA's "Hall of Fame" which made me proud to be a lawyer. I wish you could have been here but I know you were aware of the honor there in Heaven. Also, TCDLA created a pro bono award in my name "The Charlie Butts Pro Bono Award" (Tim Evans from Fort Worth whom you know, received this year's award). Bill Harris of Fort Worth was our President and he speaks of you in glowing terms, my Son. As you know on June 30th I hit the big "90 Years old mark"; your Papa was 92 when our Lord brought him Home. Much more has occurred, my Son, however, I feel sure that you are aware of everything. Must go because this is getting a bit long for your Guest Book. Shirley sends her love as well as mine.
Much love, Your Old Dad

April 15, 2011

My Dear Dana ... Shirley and I celebrated our 44th Anniversary yesterday and reflected back over the years about our many blessings the Good Lord has given us, not the least of which is you, my eldest Son.

I know you and our loved ones who went to Heaven before you are enjoying Life without pain, sorrow or the myriad of ills and problems that beset us here on this old Earth.

Give our love to all, my Son.
Dad

Hello, my eldest. Love, Dad

Charles D. Butts, Sr.

March 15, 2011

Donna Powers

March 14, 2011

Judge and Charles, We are deeply saddened to hear of your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Charles Butts

February 28, 2011

Hello again, my Son ...
Time flies so very fast these days that your old Dad miscalculated your birthday today ... so, HAPPY 65th BIRTHDAY .. last year, of course, was your 64th.
Love, Dad

Charles Butts

February 28, 2011

My Dear Dana, my Eldest,
I wish you were here with us not only on today (your 64th birthday) but every day. Your old Dad misses you and your laughter, your ability to light up a room, your unmatched talents. Please say a word or two (up there in Heaven) for Shirley and me, Son and know your Dad loves you and thinks about you not just every-now-and-then ... but several times every day.
Love, Dad and Shirley.

Brother Robert (Wawwy)

Charles Butts, Sr.

December 25, 2010

Charlie Butts, Sr.

December 25, 2010

Christmas Day

My Dear Dana,
We are spending today at home enjoying looking at photos of yesteryears, thanking our Father in Heaven for our blessings, and looking forward to the coming New Year.

I miss you, Dear Son and want you to know and remember how much your old Dad loves you. I know your Dear Mother, NanNan and Papa and your other loved ones with you in Heaven are a comfort to you on this day of the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus.

Shirley sends her love along with mine. Merry Christmas, Dador!

Love, Your Dad

December 5, 2010

Dear Dana,
Shirley and I had a quiet day at home on Thanksgiving and thought of you especially. Your old Dad is comforted by the knowledge and Faith that our Good Lord in Heaven is watching over you, your dear Mother, Nan and Papa and all our other loved ones. I miss you, my dear Eldest.
Love, Dad

Dador, Wawwy & Dad (Charles, Sr.)

October 26, 2010

Charles D. Butts, Sr.

October 26, 2010

October 26, 2010
My Dear Dana, Shirley and I had a wonderful visit with Robert and Carol last week in Vermont but we missed your smiling face and happy laughter so very much. We had a great trip and enjoyed the Fall colors of the leaves. Carol is a gracious hostess and we all did enjoy our visit. Attached is a photo of you, Robert and your old Dad taken at your house. It is one of my favorites. We miss you, Dana but are comforted with the realization that you are with our Father in Heaven, with your dear Mother, NanNan and Papa and all the others who love you there in Heaven.
Much love, Dear Son.
Love, Your Dad

Charles D. Butts, Sr.

October 26, 2010

Diana

September 19, 2010

It is hard to believe it has been one year that you have been gone. So many times I have thought "I need to call and tell Dana" only to realize I could not. I miss you, dear Brother but I hold your smile and your laughter always in my heart. Thank you for always looking out for me when no one else would. I love you. Your little Sister.

Dana & Robert

Charles Butts, Sr.

September 17, 2010

Friday, September 17, 2010
My Dear Dana,
Today marks the first anniversary of your departure from all of the suffering, anxiety and worries of this old World and your receipt in Heaven with our Father .. and reunion with your Dear Mother, Papa and NanNan and your other friends and family. It has been a year coupled with both sadness and joy, the joy being having you as my eldest son. Shirley and I are going to Vermont soon for a visit with Robert and Carol and Robert and I speak often of you. Know how much your old Dad loves and misses you. Speak a kind word for Shirley and me, my Son.
Love, Your Dad

Charles Butts

June 30, 2010

June 30, 2010
Hello, Dana, this is your old Dad's 89th birthday and I wish you and I could celebrate together. Shirley fixed me a great lunch including butter beans! I talked with Robert on the phone as well as Sabra and Shanna but not Diana as yet. I love and miss you, my eldest.
Love, Your Dad

June 19, 2010

Fathers' Day is tomorrow ..
Dear Dana,
Your old Dad thinks of you every day. Tomorrow I will especially remember you, Dear Son. I know our Lord in Heaven had and has His special place for you and that you are at peace and no longer in pain, sorrow or anxiety. Although I miss you now and always will,your happy face in the photo when you were running to meet me when I came home from Law School warms my heart.
Much love, Dad

Charles Butts

May 21, 2010

May 21, 2010
My Dear "Eldest",
Your old Dad was honored to receive the Joe Frazier Brown Award of Excellence from the San Antonio Bar on May 7th and I hope you are as proud as I. My Dear and close friends Harry Nass and Judge Jim Barlow have passed away. Perhaps you can give them Shirley's and my regards. I miss you, Dana. Give my best to your Dear Mother, Papa, NanNan and all.
Much love, Your Dad

April 27, 2010

April 26, 2010

April 25, 2010

Sunday, April 25, 2010
My Dear Dana,
Last Sunday Shirley and I drove to Weatherford and presented your Great Grand "Papa" Butts' Knights of Pythias sword to the Pythian Childrens Home "Papa" was the 27th Chancellor Commander of the KP Lodge in Weatherford before moving to Wichita Falls in 1911. You will remember your and my enjoyable trip to Weatherford one time when you had business with a former law student of mine. I always think of you, Dear Son.

I miss you and love you dearly.
Your Dad

"Give back to Dador"

Charles D.(Charlie) Butts, SR.

February 28, 2010

February 28, 2010
My Dear Dana, ("my "Eldest" as you so often said). Today is your 64th Birthday and I know that you will enjoy this happy day with your Dear Mother, NanNan and Papa, "Dad" Brisker and all of the others who share your birthday there in Heaven with "Our Father" which art there with you. Steve White (whose birthday also is today) and I ate breakfast together yesterday to celebrate your and his birthday. We missed you and your eever-pleasant, cheerful personality at Thanksgiving and especially Christmas but I was and am comforted knowing that you no longer suffer pain or any of the other problems on this old Earth .. because you indeed are with "Our Father". Shirley sends her love along with mine, Dear Son. We know that we will see one another again one day, for such is God's will.
Love, Your Dad

Jeremy Schaffner

November 19, 2009

One of the greatest people that I've ever had the opportunity to know. The spirit of Charlie will live on with all who knew him because he left an impression on everyone he met. I've never heard a bad thing about him and only saw the love and compassion he had for those he held dear. I know we will all miss and remember him.

Iva Heath

October 14, 2009

October 14, 2009

Susan, I am so sorry I didn't ever get in touch with you to check on Charlie. We have missed him so much here at the bank. I was out of the country from Sept 12 until Sept 28. I know now though that Charlie wanted us to remember him the way we always will. He was such a wonderful person and he did so much for so many of us that work here. We always thought of you and Charlie as one of the family. We enjoyed him talking about his girls and then his grand children. He was just a delight to have around. If we can ever help in any way, please let us help. We miss him a lot and we will never forget the memories he has left us with.

Gary Russell

October 9, 2009

I only knew Charlie for the last 7 years of his life, but what an amazing man!! Charlie would never read the church bulletin when someone was reading scripture, but would always look directly at the person reading. One Sunday after I had finished, Charlie walked up to me and said, "That reading made want to stay an Episcopalian". Then he laughed.

What an honor it was for me to be asked to serve at Charlie's memorial service. Susan, I hope I did ok. We all miss Charlie, but look forward to seeing you every Sunday.

Pete Garton

October 6, 2009

What a great man! Remember the good times we all had together. Smile and laugh often! Cry when you need to!

Remember the auction events. Tubing down the Guadalupe and Breckenridge skiing. WOW! What memories.

I know it's tough. Some people say time will heal all. I don't know. What I do know is smiling, laughing and talking is the healing.

I know that Charlie and Vick are dancing with the angels now and are smiling down on ALL of us. They're still with us, you know!

Love you all. Stay strong for each other. Call when you want or need to.

My love to you all.

GOD bless,
Pete

October 6, 2009

October 4, 2009

Jan Poore

October 2, 2009

As an acquaintance of Charles' in Wichita Falls High School (1962-1964) I remember him as a very fine, jovial, talented thespian. Although we were not "close" friends, we ran in the same crowds, some of the same parties, and school activities. I never knew him with hair. Coincidentally, I moved back to W.F. from Fort Worth in 1962. He made me feel at home and not like the stranger in town. I appreciated his personality and his friendship. He is one of my high school "memories" after 45 years. I know you all will miss him dearly. God will take care of him now. He is new in Christ.
Sincerely,
Jan Clark Poore
Wichita Falls, TX

October 2, 2009

October 2, 2009

October 2, 2009

October 2, 2009

October 2, 2009

October 2, 2009

Charles Butts

October 2, 2009

Charles Butts

October 2, 2009

Dear Friends and Relarives of Charlie, Jr. ("Dana" to me, his Dad);

To acquaint you further with Charlie Jr's earlier life and family ("BFW" before Fort Worth) here are three more photos, two showing him laughing; the third, his Paternal Grandparents John and Maurine Butts (circa 1963 when he was in High School in Wichita Falls). We moved to Fort worth in 1964.

Respectfully,
Charlie Butts,Sr.

Papa Butts & Two Charlies

Charles Butts

October 2, 2009

Dear Friends and Relarives of Charlie, Jr. ("Dana" to me, his Dad);

To acquaint you further with Charlie Jr's earlier life and family ("BFW" before Fort Worth) here are three more photos, two showing him laughing; the third, his Paternal Grandparents John and Maurine Butts (circa 1963 when he was in High School in Wichita Falls). We moved to Fort worth in 1964.

Respectfully,
Charlie Butts,Sr.

September 29, 2009

Dear Charles: While visiting with our mutual friends, Ray and Suzanne Hildebrand, at Northeast Baptist Hospital, this morning, Suzanne told me about Charles, Jr's death. No deeper loss can a person experience than have a child preceed them in death. I am so sorry for your loss. May God bless you and your entire family as you continue your journey through the necessary grieving process. As much as we would like, this process cannnot be fast-forwarded.

I remember, fondly, the times in the past when we visited at NBH, during the time of your Dad's illness and subsequent death, especially.

Peace!!

Bill Simpson, Retired
Chaplain - NBH

September 28, 2009

September 28, 2009

September 28, 2009

Dana sees his Daddy

Charles Butts

September 28, 2009

September 28, 2009
To Charlie,Jr's Friends ...
Here are a few more early photos of Charlie, Jr.(Dana), his Mother (Joyce/Ginger), a cartoon he drew in Montana when he was 11, and my favorite photo of him when he was running to meet me as I came home from Law School in Austin in 1947. Just look at Dana's perfect physique and balance and his happy, happy face.

Charlie Butts, sr.
Charlie, Jr's Dad

September 27, 2009

September 27, 2009

September 27, 2009

We are devastated to learn of Charlie's passing. He was truly one of the greatest men I have ever known. Susan, Jen and Sarah- we love you all and your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
All our hears and love,
Claudia, James, Cissy and Laird Thompson

September 26, 2009

September 26, 2009

September 26, 2009

September 26, 2009

Charles Butts

September 26, 2009

September 26, 2009

I hope my comments submitted yesterday about my Son Charlie,Jr's earlier years (before he met and married his Susan) helped enlighten you, his many friends, about his boyhood. There is so much more of interest about Dana that would indeed make a most interesting book but space forbids much more here. Attached, therefore, are a few photos showing even earlier days.

Regrettably, nothing was said during his funeral about Charlie's dear Mother (Joyce whom I called "Ginger") who passed on to her own reward in Heaven several years ago. It is important thatyou see and know her, therefore, attached are a few of her photos.

Thank all of you, Charlie's friends, and you, Susan, for your friendship and caring for my Son Dana.

Charles D. Butts, Sr.
Dana's Dad

September 26, 2009

Charlie, Robert & Diana Billings, Montana

Charles Butts,Sr.

September 25, 2009

September 25, 2009

September 25, 2009

Charles D. (Charlie) Butts,Sr.

September 25, 2009

September 25, 2009

Two days ago I attended the funeral of my dear, beloved eldest Son, Charles D. Butts, Jr.. I called him "Dana"; most called him "Charlie". Although the funeral ceremonies were inspiring and served to remind we mortals that there is far, far more ahead of all of us in the Hereafter than here on Earth, there was nothing said about Charlie's life before his marriage to his Susan. Thus, this addition to Charlie's "Guest Book" about his early years.

Charlie demonstrated unusual acting, artistic and musical talents when we lived in Billings, Montana in the 50's, even winning a bicycle for his acting, appearing in some earlier school plays. When we moved to wichita Falls in the 60's Charlie brought the house down in play-after-play in high school, winning a scholarship to Midwestern University from the Tespian Society. He starred in"Pink Party Dress; "Walk in the Park" and memorably as Helen Keller's father in the "Miracle Worker". When I was in the DA's office in Wichita Falls Charlie drew pictures of the trial of some of my cases and designed the first logo later for the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. His beautiful baratone voice stood out in the high school accapella choir and our church choir.

Charlie had beautiful sort of rose tinted blond hair until his senior year in high school when suddenly it all dropped ourtwithin just a few months. That didn't stop him though because he turned his problem into a positive trademark. His poetic ability was such that I do hope Susan, Jennifer and/or Sarah have his poems published.

Charlie announced at football games, appeared occasionally at Casa Manana,and his unmatched sense of humor brightened everyone fortunate enough to be around him.

One time he even wore a rabbit suit complete with fuzzy tale to an illusive guy trying to avoid being served with legal papers and hippety hopped into the man's office and sang "Happy Easter" as he served him. Texas Monthly dubbed Charlie sas "Process Server of the Year" for that.

As his Dad I could write a whole book lauding my Son "Dana", and as a matter of fact one day I probably will.

Dana has a dear brother Robert and loving sister Diana, and his guest book speaks loudly about my Son Dana.

St. Like's Episcopal Church in Fort Worth was overflowing with his friends and I was overwhelmed by all of the wonderfdul things so many of his friends said to me about him when they learned I am his Dad.

I am going to try to attach 2 or 3 photos to this tribute showing my dear Son Charlie Butts, Jr.in his earlier years.

I am most grateful to Susan for taking care of Dana not only in his last illness but through all of the prior years and especially do I humbly thank our Lord in Heaven for giving him as my eldest son; I know that Heaven indeed must be enjoying Charlie, Jr's (Dana's) joyful ways and spirit.

I send this with undying love to you, my Son.

Until we meet again, your old Dad Charlie, Sr.

Two tough cowhands, Charlie (Dana) and Robert

September 25, 2009

Barbara Witman

September 25, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with Susan, Jennifer, Sarah, Dora and the family of Charlie. Memories of his love of life and the stories he shared will always be remembered. He had a zest for life and a way of sharing it that made him such a special person. He will be missed.
Fondly,

Matt & Melissa Maples

September 25, 2009

We have very fond memories of Charlie at the Costume Parties. What a beautiful person. We are so sorry to hear this sad news and send our deepest sympathy.

God bless you today and forever more,

September 24, 2009

Susan and girls,
I have had a talk with Mother, Daddy and Cary up there is heaven. I wanted to make sure that they don't let Charlie get hit in the head with the squeeze shoot during a "round up" again. We are so sorry for your loss. Charlie was such a great and funny person. You will have so many wonderful memories of your life together and everyone who knew Charlie will have great memories also.
Jeanette Vollintine
Heather Vollintine Perricone
Derek Vollintine

Kathy Kinser

September 24, 2009

Susan, Sarah and Jennifer, there is not much more I can add about Charlie's wonderful personality and love of life, family and what was "right" in this world. I will always cherish my memories of all of us together and the terrific example Charlie set for being a family man. His sense of humor and bigger than life personality will always be with me, and all that knew him. I am so very sorry for your loss -- there will never be another like Charlie.
With much love, Kathy

Pam Wolfson Johnson

September 24, 2009

I have fond memories of Charles from our high school days. He was a terrific actor "back in the day," a lot of fun to be around and a very good friend. Remembering him, brings a smile. I am very sorry to hear this sad news and send my deepest sympathy to his family.

September 24, 2009

Oh the stories Charlie could tell, he just always made me laugh so hard. Not only the stories but the way he talked about his wife, daughter and those precious grandbabies of his. He was so proud of you all. Will miss him. Jonnie Wall

Sam Bashara

September 24, 2009

"Charlie’s father called to my attention that we recently lost to the ages our classmate and friend, Charles D. Butts, Jr. It seems remarkable that notwithstanding almost a half century has passed, I can still vividly remember Charlie on the stage giving us so much laughter with his portrayal of characters. He seemed to have had a gift for conveying the emotions of the moment vividly to those of us who were so entertained by his masterful performances. I remember his great smile and his wonderful inclinations toward a funny prank from which he seemed to get so much delight."

Laura Key Cooper

September 24, 2009

I knew Charles at Wichita Falls High School and he helped me with obtaining child support while he was an investigator. He had such a wonderful sense of humor and quality of character. The world will deeply miss him.

September 23, 2009

Our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Susan and family.

The O'Malley Twins

Mary & Ed Buel

September 23, 2009

Susan and family, We send our deepest sympathy for your tremendous loss. Charley was our hero, too and your strength and love helped him to be the unique and gracious man he was.

Don & Carolyn Carter

September 23, 2009

Charley always made us laugh. He always made us smile. Sometimes he even made us cry – laughing. We never parted his company without feeling better than when we arrived. Just being around Charley made for a better day.

To say Charley was a man’s man would be an understatement. But, he also could have been a poster child for what a family man should be. He loved and adored only one woman – Susan. But she knows that. He loved and adored his children and grandchildren. But they know that too.

To us, Charley was a great dinner companion and friend. His stories, his jokes, and his poetry were always entertaining and a welcome guest. We only wish he had recorded some of his writings and thoughts. We would enjoy hearing each and every one of them one more time.

Empathy and compassion were not foreign words in Charley’s vocabulary. In the end, neither were courage and strength.

We loved the guy.

Our only regret is that we never told Charley any of this. Our hope is that he knew these things.

Don and Carolyn Carter

Tootie Wolff - Hires

September 23, 2009

What a truely amazing man. Words cannot express how much he will be missed. Even though I'm sad right now, all I have to do is think of that booming laugh and I swear I can feel that big ol'e bear hug he always seemed to have for us.

Shane Howell

September 23, 2009

Charlie Butts was an incredible person through his humor, kindness, and family values. He will be dearly missed by all that knew him, but especially the "rat pack" of the Oakridge class of 1991.

Jennifer Caldwell

September 22, 2009

To A Most Wonderful Family -- Charlie Butts adored his family and let everyone who came into his circle know it. The stories of Susan, his girls and grandchildren were shared with pride and love.
He also always made me laugh. That booming chuckle of his would bounce off the walls of the courthouse and I would walk faster down a hall, knowing I would see Charlie there regaling someone with a joke or a story. He was one of a kind.

Ann Codlin

September 22, 2009

We were so sorry to hear of the loss of Charlie. Our thoughts and prays are with you all during this difficult time.

Ann & Alan Codlin and family

Bob & Carol Butts

September 22, 2009

The Old Lord lent “Dana” to us for a season and now has called him home. It helps Bob and me, though our vision is limited, to know that God doesn’t act rashly nor by chance, but by His determinate counsel whereby He foresees, decrees and executes what is best.

If we think of how difficult it is to maintain an upright course through this life, we will ultimately consider Dana to be blessed who before encountering further dangers in this world, has been delivered from them all. He is one who set sail upon a stormy and tempestuous sea but has arrived in safety to the secure haven.

However brief our time with Dana may seem, we are glad at least in this, that he has finished the course which the Lord marked out for him. He is not lost to us forever as we will recover him in the blessed resurrection in the Kingdom of God.

How fitting that we shed tears for the temporary loss of so beloved a man. May Christ our Savior watch over us who remain and direct us with His Spirit until we too arrive in Heaven to enjoy eternity with Dana in glory where there are no more tears.

We love you Dana.

Carol (& Robert) Butts

"Dador"

September 22, 2009

Dana was the greatest and grandest and most wonderful brother to me. My heart is broken that he is no longer here. I took a ride yesterday to look at the changing leaves. They are not as bright as they were last fall when Dana was still here. I know I'll see him again and look forward to that time when we can all rejoice in the presence of the Lord of All.

Bob & Carol Butts
Vermont

Rick Hostler

September 21, 2009

Through convoluted connections I've known Charlie and his family a long time and though I was more of an acquiantance he always treated me as a close friend. He was one of those rare individuals that made people feel good about themselves and he always remebered your name. I truly admired Charlie and he was the type of guy "I got". I understood his point of view and his great sense of humor both a sign of his remarkable intelligence. His sensitivity and insights were truly appreciated and he left an impression and a will to be like him. I am so saddened , he truly touched my heart and mind and though his trade mark dramatic voice still resonates I'll miss not hearing it again.God Bless him and thank you Charlie for who you were. My deepest sympathy to Susan and the girls and my friends the Wilmingtons. I'll miss you Charlie and I'll always remember you.

The Hostlers, Rick, Kelley and Ryan

curtis vonderahe

September 21, 2009

Vicki and I were saddened to hear of Charlie's passing. He was a rare individual who could make you smile just seeing him. So many memories, so many laughs, it is impossible to remember them all much less write them all down. We had so much fun on our ski trips, those memories will live with our family forever. Charlie will live on with all of us, with all those memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. We will miss Charlie terribly.

Krisanne Alexander

September 21, 2009

We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers will be with your family.

Krisanne and Jamie Alexander
Denton Humane Society

ron phillips

September 21, 2009

I was in Dana and Susan's backyard looking at the empty chair in the corner the other day. I was wishing I could hear one more story , one more joke , one more beer with my brother. I just really miss him ...I love you Bro.

September 21, 2009

What a wonderful man Charlie was and with a sense of humor that could make even the saddest person burst at the seams with laughter. I first met Charlie as a teenager at Leonards Dept Store and have thought of him often. My condolences to Susan and family. Only time will heal your pain, but don't you know he is entertaining Heaven! Knowing the greatness of your loss. Bebe Hinojosa Beheler

Linda & Jack Martin

September 21, 2009

It has been many years since I have seen Charlie & Susan but the memories I have of them always touch my heart. Reading all the comments just enforce my opinion of him so many years ago. I am so sorry for your family's loss - he was a man that always made a lasting impression and apparently touched many.

Franny Hyman

September 21, 2009

I was saddened and shocked to learn that Charlie had passed on. What a great guy! He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Susan. God Bless.

Neysa Morrell

September 21, 2009

Charlie's great dignity,wonderful sense of humor, kindness and love made every encounter with him, in our professional and personal lives, extremely blessed. Our hearts are heavy as we pray for your precious family. We adored Charlie. Love always, Neysa, Katy, Susan and Melissa.

Jim Rutledge

September 21, 2009

I will never forget how Charlie was a good friend when I really needed one many years ago. He was one of a kind in so many ways.

Craig McConnell

September 21, 2009

My father told me after he met Charlie the first time that he was "good people" boy what a understatement. I always knew when I went to Susan and Charlie's I would leave with a smile on my face. Thanks for all the sunshine you brought to the world.

Dick Stinson

September 21, 2009

I just now saw Charlie's obit and I am crushed! He was one of my favorite people in the world. Charlie's sense of humor was the best & I will miss him. Susan, my prayers and love are with you! I have to be out of town Wednesday or I would be at the service. Blessings to you and your family.

Johnny Tidwell

September 21, 2009

What a fun time to be with Charlie. When he lost his hair so many years ago, he turned it into a positive. Not many could do that in high school. I remember on a choir trip to Texas Tech, he wanted to be introduced as an ambassador from Russia. He was hilarious. A pleasure to have went to school with Charles.

Cindy Sellers-Flowers

September 21, 2009

Charlie was larger than life and brought joy and laughter to the District Clerk's office with his wit and humor. He will be dearly missed. May God bless you during this time of sorrow.

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Estate Settlement Guide

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