Estel "Don" Butler

Estel "Don" Butler, age 89, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026. He was born on March 22, 1937, in Ola, Arkansas, to Fred and Bertie Lee Butler. Don grew up in Somerset, Louisiana, where he developed the quiet strength, work ethic, and kind spirit that would define his life.

On July 19, 1953, Don married the love of his life, LaVerne McCarty of Sicily Island, Louisiana. Together they shared 67 wonderful years of marriage and built a loving family centered on faith, hard work, and devotion to one another.

Don was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He and LaVerne raised four children, David, Dusty, Sharon, and Robert. He spent many years working at H & H Repair, where he was well known and deeply appreciated by coworkers and customers alike. He also proudly served his community as a volunteer fireman.

After retiring from H & H Repair, Don discovered a true passion for farming alongside his son-in-law, Dennis, and his grandson, Cole. He loved spending time outdoors, working the land, and being surrounded by family. Don was a kind and gentle man with a quiet wit that brought smiles to those who knew him best.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Bertie Lee Butler; his brother, Luther Butler; his beloved wife, LaVerne Butler; and his sons, David Butler and Robert Butler.

Don is survived by his children, Dusty Butler and wife Olga, and Sharon Grissom and husband Dennis; daughter-in-law, Bess Butler Graham; grandchildren, Elise Butler Jones, John David Butler, Sydney Graham Bower, Kelley Grissom Ewing, Cole Grissom, Anna-Claire Butler, and John Thomas Butler; along with many cherished great-grandchildren, extended family members, and friends.

Don will be remembered for his gentle heart, unwavering love for his family, and the steady example he set for all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he loved so deeply.

A family graveside service will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 1:00 PM.

Friends and family are invited to gather for a reception and time of fellowship beginning at 2:30 PM at the home of Sharon and Dennis Grissom.

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