In Loving Memory of David Edward Butts

David Edward Butts of Montgomery, Ohio passed away on September 2, 2026 at the age of 85, only 7 days prior to his 86th birthday. Dave lived a remarkable life filled with love, family, friendship, travel (visiting every continent), devotion to the Kansas Jayhawks and any sport that involved a ball. He was perhaps the most loyal Kansas Jayhawk fan ever. He made memories wherever he went and left an unforgettable impression on all who knew him.

Dave was the beloved husband of Nancy Butts, his wife of 63 years. Loving father of Deb (Russ) Henke and Jim (Pam) Butts, affectionately known as GPa to Ryan (Samantha) Henke, Katie (Scott) Ferguson, Kyle (Kate) Butts, Maddy (Carson) McCarthy, Scott Henke, and beloved great-grandfather of William Henke. His family was his greatest joy, and he was immensely proud of them.

Dave was the son of the late Basil and Isabelle Butts, and brother of the late Bill (Margaret) Butts and Don (Dee, living) Butts. He will be profoundly missed by Nancy, his family, his many friends, and all who were blessed to know him.

Dave met Nancy at the University of Kansas. Upon graduating, he completed The United States Navy OCS. Dave proudly served as a Lieutenant and Navigator aboard the USS Cacapon. After four years of service, he began his career with Colgate-Palmolive and then continued until retirement as the National Sales Manager with The Andrew Jergens Company. He retired after 25 years of service with Jergens at 58 and moved with Nancy to Hilton Head Island where they resided for 22 years, one of their ten moves.

An avid golfer and member of Sea Pines Country Club, Dave loved everything about the game, especially the friendships, competition, and stories. He was particularly proud of his hole-in-one, although a bit jealous that Nancy had hers first! He repeatedly boasted to anyone that would listen about sinking the winning putt at the Member-Guest.

Those who knew Dave will remember his gregarious laugh, his fun-loving spirit, and his ability to make any gathering more enjoyable. No day, of course, was complete without his 5:00 cocktail hour... a tradition unlike any other!

Dave’s final resting place will fittingly be in Sea Pines on Hilton Head. He was an amazing husband, father, brother, GPa, and friend. He leaves behind a lifetime of wonderful memories, stories, laughter, and love.

Memorial Service

A memorial service honoring Dave’s life will be held at 4:00 PM on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Twin Lakes Chapel, 9840 Montgomery Road, Montgomery, Ohio 45242.

A Celebration of Life, with hors d’oeuvres and drinks, a must for those who knew Dave, will immediately follow until 6:00 PM.

In Lieu of Flowers

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider a gift to one of the following:

Hospice of Cincinnati

In gratitude for the compassionate care provided to Dave and our family at the Margret J. Thomas Inpatient Care Center in Blue Ash.

Benevolent Care at Twin Lakes

Checks may be made payable to the Life Enriching Communities Foundation and sent to:

9840 Montgomery Road

Cincinnati, Ohio 45242