William Butler - Obituary

illiam Robert Butler, Jr., (Bobby) was born in Washington, DC to Mae Thelma and William Robert Butler, Sr. (deceased). He leaves to cherish his memories, a loving and devoted wife of 47 years, Mattie Louise; two sons, Daryl J., Marc D., and a daughter, Rachel M. Stallings; five grandchildren - Donnell Butler, Kevin Butler, Briana Stallings, Ashleigh Butler, and Garrett Butler. He is also survived by three brothers, Daniel T., Ray A., and Vernon G. (Brenda) Butler. Bobby joined the Air Force in February 6, 1959. As an Airman, he worked as woodworker/carpenter. He was stationed in Japan, and did temporary tours of duty in Saigon, Vietnam, Iwo Jima, and Thailand. He was awarded a Good Conduct Medal for demonstration of exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during February 6, 1959 to February 5, 1962. He was honorably discharged in October 22, 1962. He was a member of the American Legion of Maryland Post No. 0297. In 1960 he met Louise in Utah before being transferred to Japan. Louise thought that this was the end of their brief relationship. However, they reconnected when her Dad was transferred to Japan. Bobby and Louise were married on March 1, 1963 at Andrews AFB, Maryland. He loved his family very much and always made them his first priority. He encouraged his children to be the best that they could be, no matter what the dream or vision. He enjoyed helping others and being with people. He also enjoyed nothing more than getting on his tractor to work around the yard or, in the recent snows, going around the neighborhood to help plow neighbors out. He worked at various jobs which allowed him to use his carpentry skills and his experience with heavy duty equipment after his discharge. He worked as a tractor-trailer driver for Safeway Stores, Inc. for 28 years before retiring in 1994. Bobby was an active outdoors person who loved to keep busy (he frequently referred to himself as “an old farm boy”). He enjoyed hunting, fishing, carpentry, gardening and landscaping (he formed several landscaping businesses after his retirement). He loved cars and trucks (especially diesel) and was always buying something new to drive. He had recently rekindled his interest in flying and was planning to continue lessons to get his license. He leaves many family and friends to mourn his passing. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Unity Presbyterian Church, 4401 Brinkley Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748.