Sonny Butler, 88, founded N.C. veneer company
September 5, 2024
James Butler of Thomasville, N.C., a former Pawleys Plantation resident, died Aug. 30 at the Hospice of the Piedmont in High Point, N.C., surrounded by his family. He was 88.
Known as Sonny, he was born April 1, 1936, in Meridian, Miss., the son of Sam A. Butler and Clara DeWease Butler. His family moved to High Point when he was 4. He was a standout athlete at High Point High School, earning recognition as an All-American quarterback. Sonny continued to shine in football at Catawba College as a quarterback and safety, finishing the last year of his business degree at High Point University, before enlisting in the Marine Corps.
After his military service, he worked in the hardwood veneer industry, later establishing Butler Veneer Sales, a business that continues to thrive under the leadership of his son. Known for his generosity, Mr. Butler often remarked, “It is not my money, but God’s money,” reflecting his commitment to helping those in need and supporting his church.
Mr. Butler was an avid golfer and a longtime member of the YMCA, working out regularly and playing racquetball.
He was a lifelong member of Green Street Baptist Church in High Point, where he served as a deacon.
His love for the beach and golf led him and his wife, Betty, to retire at Pawleys Island, where they built their dream home in Pawleys Plantation and joined First Baptist Church of Georgetown. They moved back to Thomasville to be closer to their children and returned to Green Street Baptist Church.
In addition to his wife, Betty Flintom Butler, he is survived by his daughters, Kelley Butler Griffin (John) and Sallie Butler Ledford; his son, Marc Wyatt Butler (Erin); his grandchildren, Chasity Bowles (Adam), Brittany Bullock (Clint), Nathan Nifong (fiancée Anna Blackburn), Reid Butler (Natalie) and Kendall Butler McCormick (Lawson); his great-grandchildren, Avery, Jack, Caroline, Jase, and Hudson; his brother, Roger Butler (Judy), and his sister-in-law, Susan Hines Butler.
His daughter Leigh Butler Kirk died before him as did two grandchildren, Ayden and Rylan Bullock, and a brother, Alman Butler.
A celebration of his life will be held at noon Saturday at Green Street Baptist Church by the Rev. Ted Sherrill. A committal service will follow at Floral Garden Park Cemetery for family and close friends.
The family will receive friends at the church an hour before the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Hospice of the Piedmont.
