R. Stephen Butler

R. Stephen Butler, 70, lifelong resident of Bolivar and C.E.O. of Butler Funeral Home passed away October 14, 2017 at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, Missouri. A graduate of Bolivar High School, he attended Southwest Baptist University, and was an honor graduate of Dallas Institute of Funeral Service, graduating in 1969. He returned to Bolivar joining his parents Paul D. and Mary Lou Butler where they worked together for many years in the funeral home and ambulance business. In 1968 he married Jarolyn Stanfill, who was the love of his life. They shared 49 years together and traveled extensively as well as sharing responsibilities at the funeral home. Through the years Stephen was active in various community and civic organizations including the Bolivar Optimist Club, the Bolivar Chamber of Commerce, the Missouri Funeral Directors Association, the National Funeral Directors Association, and the First Christian Church. Stephen had a passion for his career that was seldom equaled and never exceeded. He truly treated each family that selected his firm as his own and instilled that attribute in his entire staff. He lived life to its fullest and was always an encouragement to those around him. He had an uncommon command of details and organization that was apparent in everything he did. His wit and charm made him a delight to everyone who knew him. He possessed a steadfast calm and confidence that inspired everyone who had the pleasure of calling him friend. He continued to work daily beside his beloved wife Jarolyn since they joined the Holman-Howe team in 2008. Visitation will be held Tuesday, October 17, 2017 from 5-7 PM at Butler Funeral Home. Funeral services for R. Stephen Butler will be held Wednesday, October 18, 2017 at 10:30 AM at Butler Funeral Home with Dr. Billy Russell, Rev. Bill Nichols, and Bro. Jeff Shelenhamer officiating. Pallbearers will be: Darrol Cribbs, David Cribbs, John Robert Smith, Dr. John Hutcheson, Kenneth R. Howe, Lee Easter, and J. Patrick Boyle. Burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery. Memorial contributions for R. Stephen Butler, may be made to Convoy of Hope, or St. Jude Children's Hospital.

R. Stephen Butler

June 5, 1947 - October 14, 2017