JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Earl Phillip Butler, 93, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 14, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida, following a brief illness.
Born on Nov. 7, 1931, in Independence, Missouri, Earl was the son of William Henry Butler and Jennie Friend Butler. He was preceded in death by his brother, Wallace Butler, and his sister, Joyce Wells.
Earl is survived by his devoted wife, Margaret Butler (née John); his children, Deborah Varner, Michael Butler (Sandi Pope) and Kenneth Butler (Karen Gregg); five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
Earl was a man of deep faith and service, devoted to his church, Community of Christ (formerly RLDS), and his family. He was a tireless worker throughout his life and well into his retirement years. A natural entrepreneur, Earl owned and operated several businesses over the years, including Butler Courtesy Ford and a used car dealership in Parsons. Earl continued selling used vehicles well into his retirement. He was also a skilled home builder, constructing multiple homes for both his family and others.
Earl proudly served in the United States Air Force, where he learned to fly, a skill that ignited his lifelong passion for aviation. He loved to share stories about the many airplanes he had owned and flown over the years.
The service will be at 2 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 15, at Colonial Hills Community of Christ, 3539 S.W. 7 Hwy, Blue Springs, MO, 64015.
Earl will be laid to rest near his parents in Blue Springs Cemetery in a private ceremony.
He will be remembered for his unwavering faith, remarkable work ethic and love for family, flight and community.
