David Butler

David Warren Butler, 72, of El Dorado, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025. Born December 5, 1953, at Patuxent River Naval Air Station in Maryland to Warren and Arlene (Shaw) Butler, David lived a life marked by love, laughter, and service to his family, clients, and community.

David graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University with a degree in forestry, where he met the love of his life, Jeanne Anne MacPherson. They married on January 5, 1980, and that same year he founded Enterprise Forest Management. For over four decades, he walked the timberlands of South Arkansas alongside the landowners he served, building his practice on integrity and genuine care for both the land and the people who owned it. Above all else, David was devoted to his family. He was always present at ball games, school events, and around the dinner table. He provided for them with quiet determination and loved them with a selflessness that defined his character. His greatest pride was being a husband, father, and Papaw.

Anyone who knew David knew his sharp wit and his gift for finding humor in everyday moments. He never missed a chance to make someone laugh or brighten a conversation. Beneath the humor was a man of deep kindness and rock-solid character who believed in hard work, doing what was right, and showing up for the people who mattered.

David found his greatest joy outdoors. He loved fly fishing quiet streams, mountain biking rugged trails, and cycling the Arkansas countryside. From his own days as a Scout to his years as Scoutmaster, he poured himself into teaching young people about leadership, integrity, and the outdoors. A devoted member of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in El Dorado, his faith was the steady foundation beneath everything he did.

David is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Jeanne Anne Butler; his children, Chris Butler (Mikka) of Kingsland and Janet Butler of Panama City, Florida; four grandchildren who knew him as "Papaw"—Kade, Kyra, Kalyn, and Kenisyn Butler; and his siblings all residing in Texas, Debbie Trabanino (Robert), Robin Bragg, Michael Butler (Criss), Laurie Tragni (Dan), James Butler, John Butler (Amy), and Carole Page (Rodney). Though miles separated David from his brothers and sisters, he loved them deeply and delighted in remembering their childhood adventures together.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Warren and Arlene Butler.

In honoring David's wishes, he will be cremated, and no public service will be held. Young's Funeral Directors is serving the family.

Those wishing to honor David's memory may consider donations to a charity of their choice.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.youngsfuneralhome.com