Anna M. Butch

Anna M. Butch (née Dowling), 72, of Franklinville, NJ, passed away peacefully at home on November 14, 2024.
Anna was a loving wife, devoted mother, proud grand and great-grandmother, and cherished friend. Her family and friends will forever remember her for her energetic spirit, her love of hosting, and her unwavering dedication to her family and friends. She leaves behind an enduring legacy of generosity.
Anna was born on October 12, 1952, in the Roxborough/Manayunk section of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to her late parents John and Marie Dowling (née Kappe). She was one of nine siblings: Tommy Dowling (Barb), Patty Theriault, the late Johnny Dowling, the late Jimmy Dowling, the late William Dowling, the late Marie Champion, the late Katherine Wickward and the late Denise Fleck.
Anna's life was marked by love and devotion to her family. She married Jim Butch, her beloved husband of 45 years, with whom she shared an extraordinary life full of adventures, laughter, and joy. Together, Anna and Jim created lasting memories at their beloved home, Butch's Hidden Acres, where they hosted countless family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and lively parties with friends. It was there that she found great joy in bringing everyone together and making them feel like part of her family. Annual Christmas celebrations and summer barbecues by the pool were the highlights of her year.
She is survived by three children: Ronald Larson (Jessica), Erica Wright (Fred), and Jesse Butch (Kate), all of whom will carry on her legacy of love and generosity. Her nine grandchildren-Madison, Lexi, Gavin, Russell, Emily, Everett, Amelia, Owen, and Chloe-and great-granddaughter Everly, were adored by her. Anna loved spending time with them, especially at family get-togethers. Whenever given the chance, she would boast of their accomplishments and there is no doubt her most cherished role was that of being "Nana." Anna comes from a large family with many nieces, nephews, and friends. Her close relationships with nieces Marie Potenski and Terry May (Rich) - as well as lifelong friend Diane Hennessy - provided her great joy in life.
Anna retired after 30-plus years of service at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, where she will always be remembered for her exacting attention to detail and impeccable record-keeping. After retiring, she enjoyed 14 years of well-earned leisure, spending her time traveling with her husband Jim, even snow-birding at their home in Venice, Florida for several years.
Anna loved shopping and dining out around South Jersey, as well as spending time with her close friends at the Jersey Shore. When she was not out and about, she could be found sitting poolside at home, gardening, or cheering on the Phillies and Eagles.
Her energy and zest for life were contagious. Anna will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Relatives and friends are invited to her visitation at the Bell-Hennessy Funeral Home on Tuesday, November 19th from 9:30-11:30 AM at the Bell-Hennessy Funeral Home, 420 S. Main St., Williamstown. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 12:00 PM at Our Lady of Peace Parish / St. Mary's R.C. Church, 32 Carroll Ave., Williamstown, NJ 08094. Entombment All Saints Cemetery.
The Funeral Mass Live Stream can be viewed @ https://m.facebook.com/OLOPPWilliamstown/
In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be made to St. Mary's Church at the above address.
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