Judy Bates Butler

Judy Bates Butler, age 78, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025. She was born on April 25, 1947, in Newport, TN, to LeRoy and Virginia Bates. Judy professed her faith in Jesus Christ and most recently felt most at home attending East Rogersville Baptist Church where her son serves as pastor. Judy retired from the Cocke County Board of Education, where she served faithfully as a trusted bookkeeper. Her coworkers throughout the county became like an extended family. Beyond her professional life, she found great joy in playing the piano, listening to hymns, and singing along with the Gaithers. She cherished spending time with friends—whether sharing lunch locally or traveling to favorite vacation spots. One of her fondest memories was a special “Girl’s Trip” with Peggy Giles and Sandra Hux, lovingly arranged by her niece, Pam Hux Davis. Lifelong friendships, such as her bond with travel companion Betty McMillan, enriched her life and became part of the family’s story—holidays always included “our Betty.” Judy shared a special bond with her sister, Marian. Though the second-born, she quickly assumed “first-born” responsibilities, doing her best to keep Marian on track and on time—a goal she whole-heartedly pursued, yet met with impressive resistance. A devoted mother and “Nanny,” Judy spent countless hours cheering on her children and grandchildren at basketball, football, and soccer games. In recent years, she delighted in watching Elijah and Johnna Beth perform in ballet productions. Her family knew her as a source of unconditional love, steady encouragement, and sweet words—she never spoke ill of anyone and was a safe place. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Arthur & Ruth Cureton, parents; LeRoy Bates and Virgina Cureton Thomas; and son, Tony Lee Butler. She is survived by her daughter, Stacy Butler (Jan); her son, John (Jennifer) Butler; Jan Brooks, the family’s beloved ‘Brooksi’; her sisters, Marian Anderson and Janice Cody; her brother, Chip (Barbara) Thomas; her beloved grandchildren, Jacob, Elijah, Josiah, and Johnna Beth Butler; and countless cherished nieces and nephews. Judy now rests in the arms of her Savior. Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 16, from 10-12:00 followed by a memorial service at Manes Funeral Home officiated by her son, Pastor John Butler. Entombment services will follow at Resthaven Memorial Gardens Mausoleum in Dandridge, TN. The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Smoky Mountain Health, Serenity House, and the many friends who faithfully loved and cared for Judy. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Serenity House, Friends of Hospice in Morristown, TN. Family and friends may sign the guest register online at: www.manesfuneralhome.com. Arrangements with Manes Funeral Home.

Judy Bates Butler

April 25, 1947 - August 12, 2025