John A. Butler

Mr. John A. Butler, 85, of Columbia entered into rest at his home on June 16, 2015, surrounded by his loving family. Mr. Butler celebrated 63 years of matrimony to Mrs. Mary McGovern Butler and he was the proud father of Debbie and Paula. He enjoyed gardening and spending time with family. He served his country in the US Army and received the bronze star medal for his service in the Vietnam War. He received a letter of gratitude from President Richard Nixon. Mr. Butler retired from the US army after 23 years receiving an honorable discharge signed by General Westmoreland. He went on to work as a mechanic for Westinghouse for 22 years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four sisters and one brother. Those left to cherish the memory of his life include his devoted wife Mary M. Butler; daughters Debbie Covington (Paul) and Paula Hunt (David); four grandchildren Angela, Michael, Carrie, and Mac; seven great grandchildren; one great great grandson; and a host of other relatives and friends. His family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday June 18, 2015 at Thompson Funeral Home at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 845 Leesburg Rd. Columbia, SC, from 1until 2 PM. Funeral services will follow at the funeral home at 2 PM followed by burial in Greenlawn Memorial Park with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Disabled American Veterans 6437 Garners Ferry Rd, Columbia, SC 29209.