Kevin Hamilton Butts

Kevin H. Butts of Smyrna, Georgia, passed away Sunday, April 27, 2025 at the age of 51 after a courageous battle with cancer. Kevin was born in 1973 in Atlanta. He was a proud Atlantan and enjoyed seeing the tremendous growth of the city during his lifetime. After graduating from Woodward Academy, Kevin attended Georgia Tech where he joined The Phi Gamma Delta (Fiji) Fraternity. Kevin earned his Bachelor, Mechanical Engineering (with Honors) at Tech and later received his Master of Business Administration, Finance from Georgia State University.
Kevin spent 16 years with Georgia Pacific in various senior-level management, finance and business development roles. Known for his strategic vision and dedication, Kevin's career spanned positions with Southern Company, Earthlink and Eastman Kodak.
Kevin attended Buckhead Church and believed in giving back and serving others. He was active on the Board of Advisers, as a supporter and volunteer for the Atlanta Youth Project, helping provide at-risk youth with life-changing summer camp experiences; Board of Directors for Woodland Ridge Assisted Living; Volunteer for Habitat for Humanity International; Board Treasurer for multiple homeowner associations and a Volunteer at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta.
Kevin was passionate about competition and sports, enjoyed a good day on the golf course and played on tennis and soccer teams well into his late 40's. He introduced his love of snow skiing to both Dee and Noah and it didn't take long before Noah was passing him on the slopes. In addition to playing sports, he was an avid supporter of his hometown teams Atlanta United FC soccer club, and the Atlanta Braves and Falcons. A passionate investor, Kevin had a keen eye for opportunity and enjoyed following the markets. He would spend hours on a jigsaw puzzle, but above all, he loved traveling with his family and creating cherished memories in every corner of the world they explored together. Kevin will be remembered for his sharp mind, kind heart, genuine laugh and his deep devotion to his family and friends.
Kevin was preceded in death by his father Hal Butts, Jr. and stepmother Diane (Willis). He is survived by his wife of 21 years Dee Ford; son Noah Butts; sister Ashley Remik and husband Jim of La Plata, MD; step brothers Sam Ivey and wife Jami and Nathanael Ivey and wife Amanda all of Jasper, GA, and amazing nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A memorial service and celebration of life will take place Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 2:00 pm in the chapel of Carmichael Funeral Home, 2950 King St., Smyrna, GA with Rev. Larry Teem officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:30-2:00 pm. A reception will follow from 3:00-5:00 pm in the reception center adjacent to the funeral home. Carmichael Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make donations to Atlanta Youth Project www.atlantayouthproject.org