Shirley Jean Butler

Shirley Jean Butler passed away on Tuesday, June 30th, 2026, in Houston, TX with loving attentions and prayers with her family. Shirley was born in Waco, Texas, to parents Elton A. and Ethel Mary Lou Guderian.

Raised in Waco, Texas she graduated from Waco High in 1950. She then went on to attend as many colleges in the Southwest Conference as she could. While attending Baylor (Go Bears!) Shirley met Walter James “Jim” Butler. Jim stole her heart. They married on April 19, 1958, and had three children, Laura, Mark & Jennifer. Deeply rooted in faith, Shirley poured herself into her family. She excelled at nearly everything she attempted. She kept an impeccable home; she was active in all three of her children’s lives and was a supportive wife. In her spare time, Shirley loved to garden, paint and host dinner parties. She was a formidable golfer and one of the first women to play at St. Andrew’s in Scotland.

Shirley treasured the game of baseball and would fondly remember sitting around the radio with the men folk listening to the games. Her favorite team was the NY Yankees – sorry Astros. As life progressed, she constantly rooted for the underdog, not only in sports but in life.

Shirley was preceded in death by her loving parents; devoted husband of 46 years, Walter “Jim” Butler; daughter, Laura J. Butler; son, Mark K. Butler; son-in-law, Richard SG Mishriky; sister, Geraldine Brinck; brother, Donald “Buster” Guderian. Shirley is survived by her daughter, Jennifer B. Mishriky of Houston; daughter-in-law, Leah G. Butler of San Antonio. Her beautiful grandsons who knew her as HoneyBunch; Michael J. Butler of Austin, Matthew B. Butler and Luke T. Butler of San Antonio. Shirley also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Graveside Service : Thursday, July 9th, 2026, at 11:30 am Memorial Oaks Cemetery, 13001 Katy Freeway, Houston TX 77079

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Shirley’s name to a charity of your choice.