September 23, 1938 ~ December 16, 2023 (age 85)
Charlie Franklin Butler, age 85, of Tabor City, NC, and husband of Britty A. Butler, made his last fishing trip on December 16, 2023 and has gone to reside with his Savior.
Charlie was born September 23, 1938 in Obion County, TN, the son of Charley C. and Elizabeth (Brown) Butler. He attended Obion County, TN, schools. He was of the Baptist faith and attended the Sandy Plain Baptist Church.
He proudly joined he U.S. Navy in 1959 and retired, honorably in 1977. CPO Butler sailed the waters of the globe during the Vietnam War as a Boatman’s Mate and during the later years of his service as a Boatman’s Instructor in Great Lakes, IL and Charleston, SC. He received numerous medals and awards during his years of service.
Charlie married his sweetheart, Britty Ann Carlisle Fowler, who survives, and who he lovingly called “Sug” on June 29, 2009 and spent many happy years with her camping, fishing, and visiting family at Santee National Park in SC, the Waccamaw River in NC, and Reelfoot Lake in W. TN. He loved to crappie, bream and catfish and was a talented wood craftsman. He also loved to watch his westerns on TV.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Stephanie Bunch of Woodland Mills, TN, and Tammy Williams (Ricky) of Michie, TN and two sons, Butch Butler (Glenda) of Union City, TN, and Nicky Fowler (Angela) of Tabor City, NC.
Affectionately called “The Root” or “Poppa Freckles” by his grandchildren and great grandchildren, he is survived by nine grandchildren, Drew,
Eric, Brandon, Shannon, Bethany, Laykon, Logan, Owen, and Emma. Twenty-seven great grandchildren and three great great-grandchildren, with one on the way.
He also leaves a host of special nieces, nephews, and brothers and sisters in-law.
In addition to his parents, Charlie was predeceased by his granddaughter, Ashley; his great grandson, Aaron; his six sisters, Louise, Mary Ellen, Zora Mae (his best friend), Gertrude, Lillian, and Myree; and his six brothers, John Henry, J.D., Paul, Richard, Jack, and L.D.
In lieu of flowers, the family request any donations be sent to a Veteran’s organization of your choice or to Sandy Plain Baptist Church, 6824 Swamp Fox Hwy E., Tabor City, NC 28463.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, December 21, 2023 at 11:00 AM in the Inman Ward Funeral Home Chapel.
Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service in the chapel.
A service of Inman Ward Funeral Home & Crematory.
