Jimmie G. Butler, a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, faithful brother, and dear friend to many, passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior on December 26, 2025, at the Hospice House of Reno County. He was 87 years old.
Jim was born on December 6, 1938, in Hutchinson, Kansas, to Donald and Virginia (Bolyard) Butler. From an early age, Jim learned the value of hard work, perseverance, and faith—qualities that would define his life and legacy.
Jim proudly served his country as a member of the Air Force National Guard from 1957 to 1963. A tireless worker, he spent his career in trucking and aviation, working for Cessna Aircraft, Shears Trucking, and APAC Trucking. In 1969, he founded Jimmie Butler Trucking, which he owned and operated for 40 years, earning a reputation as one of the hardest workers anyone knew.
Jim married Maxine Butcher in May of 1960, and together they were blessed with two daughters, Toni and Annette. He later married Betty J. Wallsten in 1976, who preceded him in death in January of 2010. On September 26, 2015, Jim married Patsy J. Douglas. Their marriage was one of deep companionship, love, and joy, and the two were truly perfect partners for one another over the past 12 years.
Jimmie lived life with passion and determination. He raced flat-track motorcycles for many years, earning thousands of trophies, and was a longtime member of the Prairie Pups Motorcycle Club and the Moose Lodge. He also loved working with horses—breaking and riding many over the years—and was known for his grit, strength, and unmatched work ethic.
Above all else, Jim loved Jesus, his family, and his country deeply. His faith guided his life, sustained him through loss, and gave him peace as he entered eternal rest.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Virginia Butler; his wife, Betty Butler; his stepdaughter, Judy Yoder; his granddaughter, Shannon Pedigo; and his great-grandson, Grayson Pedigo.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Patsy Douglas; daughters Toni (Leon) Bussart and Annette (Ralph) Littlejohn; stepson Mike (Jeanann) Wallsten; sisters Donna (Mil) Hinners and Betty Walker; brother Don Butler; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever treasure his memory.
Visitation will be held Sunday, January 4, 2026, from 4 pm to 7 pm at Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Avenue. A Celebration of Life service will take place Monday, January 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at New Hope Baptist Church, 4185 E. 4th Avenue.
Memorial contributions may be made to New Hope Baptist Church.
Jimmie’s life was a testament to faith, family, and faithful labor. While he will be deeply missed, we rejoice in knowing he is now home with his Savior, hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”