Howard "Tom" Thomas Butler

Howard "Tom" Thomas Butler, 78, of Augusta, Arkansas departed this life on February 14, 2026 at The Springs of Searcy in Searcy, Arkansas. He was born July 31, 1947 in Kaplan, Louisiana to the late Robert Butler and Lois (Lunday) Jernigan. He married the love of his life, Lola Parkridge Butler, in June of 1966 and they shared 60 wonderful years together. Tom was a man of many talents, a true jack of all trades whose hands were rarely still and whose heart was always open. Known most of all as a mechanic, Tom spent much of his life working on vehicles and motorcycles, able to fix just about anything with patience, skill, and determination. Outside of the garage, Howard found peace in the outdoors. He loved hunting and fishing, enjoying the quiet moments that nature offered and the simple joy of time spent doing what he loved. Tom was also an artist. He expressed his creativity through painting, often creating beautiful pieces for friends and for his own home. His artwork was personal and heartfelt, much like the man himself, and each piece carried a part of his spirit. Above all else, Tom loved his family. He was a devoted father and a proud grandfather who cherished his children and grandchildren deeply. Some of his greatest joy came from time spent with them—teaching, laughing, and simply being together. His love did not stop with his own family. Tom helped raise many children who were not his by birth but were his by heart, loving them as his own and guiding them with patience and care. When his children were young, Tom coached baseball, and every player who stepped onto that field loved him. He was more than just a coach—he was a mentor, an encourager, and a steady presence in the lives of those boys. He believed in them, pushed them to do their best, and made sure they knew they mattered. Tom loved people and was always willing to help others, whether it was lending a hand, offering advice, or simply being there when someone needed him. His kindness, generosity, and genuine care for others left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Tom will be remembered for his many skills, his creative soul, his love of the outdoors, his devotion to family, and most importantly, his big heart. He leaves behind memories that will be treasured and a legacy of hard work, compassion, and love. He is survived by his beloved wife, Lola Butler, his children, Shawn Butler, Eddie Butler (Lauren), and Tishia Hefner (Jason), his grandchildren Christopher, Lauren Ashley, Dalton, Laken, Willow, Cole, Bailey, Hope, Ashler, and AbiGrace, his great grandchildren, Bryson, Breleigh, Anna Leigh, Rhett, Tristyn, Bexley, Greyson, Barrett, Maisyn, and Kolbe. He is also survived by his brother, Kenneth Butler (Joanie). He was preceded in death by mother and step father, Lois and J.C. ‘Tip’ Jernigan, and his father, Robert Butler. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Powell Funeral Home of Woodruff County.

Howard "Tom" Thomas Butler

July 31, 1947 - February 14, 2026