Marie Louise Butler

Our mother, our grandmother, our great grandmother, our friend, but most of all our inspiration, passed away on Thursday, April 15, 2016 in Houston, Texas. She succumbed to a sudden heart attack after spending the afternoon with family. Marie defied gravity and the typical maladies of old age to live for nearly 96 years, blessing her friends and family with a wry sense of humor, a quick smile, and a generous heart, especially toward a certain four-legged friend named Elliot who loved to be with Marie, sure to get a morsel or two!

Marie was born May 21, 1920, in Chicago, Illinois, to Connie C. McConnell and Grace Hoadley McConnell. In June of 1940, she married Monette Lea Butler in New Orleans, Louisiana; he predeceased her in 1995. Survivors include 3 children: Steven M. Butler (Emily Jane, deceased), Brian M. Butler (Donna), and Denise M. Butler; 3 grandchildren: Dawn Mundy (Rick), Heather Davis (Rob), and Celia Butler (Chris Perry); 4 great grandchildren: Asia Mundy, Harper Mundy, Ryan Davis, and Sydney Davis.

Prior to relocating to Houston to be near her daughter, Marie lived in Kingston, Tennessee, where she was an active member of First Baptist Church and numerous other local organizations. Always the consummate homemaker, she was an adventurous cook and a talented seamstress. Everywhere she lived reflected her artistic eye for color and form and her varied interests. Marie was an avid gardener; she won numerous awards for and became a certified judge in flower arranging competition. During her husband's lengthy illness, she developed an interest in ceramic art, and while caring for him at home, Marie set up her own ceramic workshop and became an accomplished ceramicist.

After her husband's death, Marie began a second phase of her life at the age of 75 - traveling the world visiting Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, China, Russia, Canada, Mexico, and most of Europe. She also traveled extensively in the US and Canada. Marie was athletic all her life and was physically active well into her 90s, with a joy for life that thrilled and amazed her family. She was a beloved role model for her children and grandchildren and an inspiration to her many friends.

The family wishes to thank the staff of the Village of the Heights Assisted Living for the excellent support and care they have provided since October 2015. A special thank you to Tametra Jackson, her caregiver who became a true friend. Thanks also to numerous others who welcomed Marie to Houston and included her in their lives.

The funeral and celebration of Marie's life will be at the Heights Funeral Home on Wednesday, April 20. Visitation with family members will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by the service at 2:00. In lieu of flowers and in recognition of Marie’s love of dogs, especially Elliot, donations may be made to the Guide Dogs of Texas (guidedogsoftexas.org) or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements under the direction of Heights Funeral Home, Houston, TX.