Joseph Denton Butts

Joe Butts passed away peacefully in his home on August 19th 2016, in Austin, Texas at the age of 93. Joe is survived by Darliene his loving wife of 66 years and their four children, Linda Fox, Claudia Butts Biel (spouse Dr. William Biel, Jr.), Joe Butts Jr. and Sharon Butts.

Joseph Butts was born in rural Mississippi near Vicksburg on January 12, 1923 to Redden Alfred Butts and Emma McFerron McCandless.

He received a track scholarship from Mississippi State University before enlisting in the Navy. He was a naval aviator and flew Helldiver airplanes during World War II. He graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a degree in geology in 1951 and remained an avid OU fan for the rest of his life.

His first professional job as a geologist was with Atlantic Richfield in Corpus Christi, Texas. He became an independent geologist in 1964 and was extremely successful.

When Joe and Darliene became empty nesters, they were able to indulge in their passion for dancing and cruising the world with friends.

In 2008, they moved to Austin, Texas to be closer to their children.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Laurel and Megan with A*MED Community Hospice. Their loving care and support of Joe comforted the family during this very difficult time.

Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, the 26th of August at the Coastal Bend Texas State Cemetery in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Memorial contributions may be made to A*MED Community Hospice or the Salvation Army.