Vonda Lee Butler

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of the radiant, compassionate, and beautiful Vonda Lee Butler who went to be with the Lord on January 23rd, 2026 in Lubbock, Texas at the age of 88. She was surrounded by loved ones in her final moments.

Vonda was born on September 14th, 1937, in Beach Grove, Arkansas, to Linnie Davis Starr. In 1972, she was lovingly adopted by her stepfather, Donald Starr.

At the age of 17, Vonda met the love of her life, Frank Butler. The two married just a few months later on November 19th, 1954. Together they adopted their children, David and Jolynn, and raised their family in Placencia, California. After their children were grown, Vonda persuaded Frank to move back to her favorite place in the world—Arkansas. It didn’t take long for him to fall in love with the beauty and tranquility of the Natural State. During their years there, they owned and operated apartments and made Harrison their home. Vonda and Frank shared 49 wonderful years together until Frank’s passing. She later moved to Lubbock, Texas, to be closer to family.

Vonda had a magic quality about her, making friends wherever she went and always bringing laughter and happiness to the people she met. From working as a special education teacher’s assistant to volunteering at local hospitals, she was deeply passionate about serving others and giving back to her community. She loved to travel, go on cruises, play cards and games with friends, host and attend parties, and spend time with the people she held most dear.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Tommy Starr; her sister-in-law, Judy Starr; and her beloved husband, Frank Butler.

She is survived by her daughter, Jolynn Payne, and her son-in-law, Bryan Payne; her son, David Butler; her grandson, Justin Butler, and his wife, Heidi Butler; her grandsons, Zack Randall, Cole Butler, and Conrad Butler; her granddaughter, Cassidy Butler; and her great grandchildren, Beau, Dean, and Adalind Butler, all who will cherish their memories with her.

In honor of her final wishes Vonda's remains will be spread in Harrison, Arkansas the weekend of April 25th.