Martha Emma Butler

Martha Emma Preston Butler, 96, went to be with The Lord on November 28, 2024. Born on November 2, 1928, in Gainesville, Georgia, she was the daughter of the late Henry Johnson Preston and Robbie Elizabeth Parks Preston. She was also predeceased by her sister, Patricia Ann Newton, and her brother, Henry Johnson Preston, Jr.

She was the beloved wife and widow of Lieutenant Colonel William Howard Butler, USAF Retired. Her life was dedicated to her faith and her family. Moving all over the country, as a devoted and supportive military wife, Martha made a happy home for the family wherever they lived. Most importantly, she always made sure that everyone was involved in Sunday School and church activities. Her children are blessed that she raised them in a Christian home, following the example of her own parents. Martha was a faithful member of Thalia Lynn Baptist Church for 55 years. She dearly loved her discipleship group, “The Faith Seekers” Sunday School Class. She was deeply loved and was a true friend to all. Her wisdom, humor and warmth will be terribly missed.

Left to cherish her memory are her five children: David Preston Butler, of Olympia, Washington; Patricia “Lynn” Winfree (Zeke), of Roanoke, Virginia; Elizabeth Rose “Beth” Canaday (Jerry), of Suffolk, Virginia; Nancy Butler Weddell (Scott), of Virginia Beach, Virginia; and Robert Paul “Roby” Butler, of Virginia Beach, Virginia. She was the most loving grandmother to Heather, David, Jay, Leigh Anne, Emma, Abby, Stephanie, and Ashley. She also adored her 8 great-grandchildren, Preston, Carter, William, Bryson, Barrett, Ava, Cole and Bowen. Martha was beloved by her many nieces and nephews, who will miss their “Aunt Bug”.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, December 12, 2024 at Thalia Lynn Baptist Church.

Inurnment will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

You may wish to consider making a gift in honor of Mrs. Butler to Thalia Lynn Baptist Church, at 4392 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach, VA 23462.