Gerald Butts

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Gerald E. Butts, 86, of Anderson, Missouri, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and friend, Gerald’s life was a reflection of his deep faith, tireless work ethic, and unwavering love for those around him.

Born on December 15, 1938, to Albert and Jewell Butts, Gerald was raised with strong values that shaped his entire life. He proudly served his country as a veteran and later dedicated 36 years of his career to Premier Turbine, from 1965 until his retirement in 2001.

A true man of the land, Gerald found joy in farming—raising cattle and chickens—and was known for his skill in building fence. He also enjoyed camping and playing cards with his close friends. One of his proudest personal accomplishments was hiking to the bottom of the Grand Canyon six times. Gerald often said, “It’s not my land. It’s God’s land—I’m just taking care of it,” a simple but powerful reflection of the way he lived his life: humbly, faithfully, and with purpose.

Faith was the cornerstone of Gerald’s life. He was a godly man who lived his beliefs through quiet strength, kindness, and service to others. His family was his greatest treasure, and he found his deepest joy in being a husband, dad, grandpa, and great-grandpa.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Gary, Gene, and Dennis Butts; his sister, Neva Bridenstine; and his great-granddaughter, Alison Bryant.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ethel Butts; his children, Mariesa Clonts (husband Mike), Theresa Bowers, and Jerry Butts; and his grandchildren: Corey Booth (wife Erica), Katy Turner (husband Tobler), Nicole Bowers, Melanie Bowers (wife Sarah), and Nick Butts (wife Gaelinn). He also leaves behind 11 great-grandchildren—with one more on the way—who filled his life with pride, joy, and laughter.

Gerald’s legacy of faith, service, humility, and deep love for his family and the land will live on in the hearts of everyone who had the blessing of knowing him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Funeral services are 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 29, 2025 at Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri with Pastor Randy Bishop officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow privately at New Bethel Cemetery in Anderson, Missouri. 

 Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Corey Booth, Katy Turner, Nichole Bowers, Melanie Bowers, Nick Butts and Scotty Qualls with Virgil Sanny, Ted Barker, Richard Harp and Lonnie Stites serving as honorary. The family will receive friends on Monday evening from 5-7:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Memorials are being directed to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital c/o the funeral home. Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.