Mary Ellen Butler

Sunrise: June26,1943 – Sunset: May 1, 2025

Mary Ellen Butler, daughter of the late James Edward Sr. 1948 and Beatrice Lenea Thornton 2002, peacefully passed away in her sleep on May 1, 2025, @ 1:15 PM at the age of 81 following a courageous seven-year battle with cancer. Her final moments were spent at home with her loving family and friends, both near and far. She lived with grace, faith, and strength, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and determination. She showed the value of love, family, and embracing life’s small joy. Though she is no longer with us, the lessons she taught and the she shared remain, guiding us forward

In 1962 she met the greatest love of her life.

Mary was the beloved wife of Charlie Butler Jr. (Washington, D.C.),I in January 18, 1964 - May1, 2025 and the devoted mother to Eric Charles Butler (Waldorf, MD), Ivye Annette Butler (District Heights, MD), Constance LaRue Butler (District Heights, MD), Robin Butler (District Heights, MD), and the late Rodney Steven Butler (2/19/1967 – 4/18/2012).

Mary lived a full and beautiful life, giving her life to the LORD at an early age. Attending Upper Room Baptist, Washington DC, attended Frist Baptist Church of Glenarden, Landover MD., then becoming a of Bethlehem Baptist Church. Getting her education in DC public school. In 1971 she began her career at Siant Elizabeth Hospital as A Dietitian in the food service dept. until retirement in 2002. Finding joy in Sunday dinners with family, cheering on the Washington Redskins, playing the lottery, and taking trips to the casino. She treasured backyard family gatherings, listening to her Oldie but Goodies, the cruise she took, trips to the beaches and her passion for selling home décor and Mary Kay products with her own touch. Love of plants, if you ever needed a shoulder to lean on or an ear to listen, she was that person. Her love for pets and family remained constant throughout her lifetime.

She will always be remembered for her vibrant spirit, deep love for family, and infectious joy. Her family lovingly called her Mary, Mamma, and Mama to grandkids, and they ask that she be remembered not for the sadness of her passing, but for the light she brought into the lives of others.

Mary is survived by her husband, her children, her cherished grandchildren -Antonio, Shawnia, Johnathan, Courtney, Latorya, Victoria, Vincent, and Virginia, as well as great-grandchildren Kendra, Rolleck, Amaya, Antonio, Aaliyah, Legend, Cortez, and great-great-grandchild August. One of her favorite roles was being a grandmother.