Obituary of Joe Butler

Dr. Joe Donald Butler, 84, longtime Idabel Optometrist passed away Monday, March 22, 2010 at Idabel. He was born November 22, 1925 in the Hollycreek Community, the son of Bud and Lola Stewart Butler. Joe was a graduate of Southeastern Oklahoma State University. He worked as an educator for several years teaching Oklahoma History to the youth of McCurtain County. He later attended the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN and opened his first practice in Talequah, OK. Dr. Butler opened his office in Idabel in the late 1960’s and practiced until his retirement. After retiring Joe and his wife Mary enjoyed traveling and visited many places across the country including a trip to Alaska which was very memorable. Joe loved spending time with his grandchildren, being outdoors and working on his farm. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mary Butler; a grandson, Chad Dawson; brothers, Malcom Butler Sr. and Lynial Butler; and a sister, Gladys Stribling. Joe is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Donny and Lisa Butler of Idabel; daughter and son-in-law, Debbie and Forrest Stansell of Idabel; grandchildren, Duston Dawson and wife, Julie of Idabel, Lance Butler of Edmond and Erica Danielle Butler of Idabel; great-grandchildren, Jake Dawson, Ty Dawson and Hannah Dawson all of Idabel; a granddaughter-in-law, Laura Dawson of Idabel; his sister, Maudie Rose of Edmond; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.