Toni Lee Butkowski

Toni Lee Butkowski of Madison, MS, formerly of Clinton MS, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, surrounded by love and lifted in prayer, just as she had lived every day—with grace, devotion, and unwavering faith. She was 80 years old.

Born on August 13, 1944, in New Castle, PA, Toni carried within her a quiet strength, rooted in love and guided by her deep Catholic beliefs. From her earliest days, her life was shaped by the values of compassion, humility, and service—principles she passed on to every generation of her family.

Her greatest joy came from being surrounded by her family. She poured endless love into raising her children and reveled in the laughter of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Every visit was marked by hugs, and the comforting scent of cooking or baking. Her kitchen was the soul of her home. Cooking wasn't just a skill—it was her gift. With a well-worn recipe book and unmatched instinct, she could turn simple ingredients into meals that nourished bodies and warmed hearts. From holiday feasts to quiet Sunday dinners, Toni made sure no one ever left her house hungry—or without leftovers. Her sauce and meatballs were more than nourishment; it was an extension of her love, passed down through stories and traditions.

Faith was the cornerstone of Toni’s life. She was a devoted parishioner of Holy Savior Catholic Church, in Clinton, MS, attending Mass regularly and finding great comfort in prayer, scripture, and community. She lived her beliefs quietly but powerfully, offering kindness without judgment and always seeing the good in others. Her rosary was never far from reach, and she found peace in the rituals that connected her to God and to generations before her.

In addition to her devotion to faith and family, Toni was a passionate advocate for the sanctity of life. She played a vital role in the early formation of the pro-life movement in Mississippi, serving as the first president of the Jackson-area chapter. With conviction and compassion, she worked tirelessly to amplify the voices of the vulnerable and to support mothers in need. Her leadership helped lay the foundation for future advocacy efforts, and her legacy continues in the lives she touched.

Toni was a dedicated volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House, where she gave her time, talent, and heart to families navigating challenging journeys. Whether it was preparing meals, lending a listening ear, or simply offering a warm smile, she brought comfort where it was needed most. As a result of her dedication, she was honored with the Red Shoe Award, the Ronald McDonald House’s highest volunteer honor.

She is preceded in death by her parents Anthony and Jennie DeRosa and brother Anthony DeRosa.

Toni leaves behind her husband, the love of her life of 65 years, Robert: 4 children, Annette Deason (Joey), Kristin Dellapenna (Stacey), Danielle Gibson, Robert Butkowski (Angie); 6 grandchildren Hayden Kennedy (Dylan), Leah Bankston, Hunter Gibson, Paylin Gibson, Trey Butkowski and Laci Dellapenna; great grandchildren Anne Crosby and Meredith Kennedy; sister Dorinda Walsh (Edward); sister-in-law Pam DeRosa and countless others blessed by her compassion, her culinary magic, and the powerful example of a faith-filled life. She is now reunited with loved ones gone before her, resting in the arms of the Lord she followed so faithfully.

Her legacy is one of love, devotion, and flavor—an extraordinary life that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

A funeral mass will be held at Holy Savior Catholic Church in Clinton, MS on Saturday, August 2 at 11am. Visitation will take place for one hour prior to mass at Holy Savior Catholic Church from 10-11am. A graveside service will follow at Parkway Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Ronald McDonald House or the Alzheimer’s Association.