LaVern Butler of Magee, Mississippi

LaVern J. Butler passed away on Wednesday, December 30, 2020, at Magee General Hospital. Born and raised in Smith County, he was the son of Estus Franklin and Bertie (Runnels) Butler.

Mr. LaVern completed his high school education in 1942, just before the world entered World War II and the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor in December 1941. He knew he would be drafted and requested to serve in the Army Air Corp., later known as The United States Air Force. He would join the 15th Air Force, 485th Bomb in the Group 831st Squadron. He is one of the last remaining survivors of the WWII crew where he served as a flight officer. He retired from MS Department of Health. He was a lifelong sixty-one year member of First Baptist Church of Magee.

He is survived by his children, Jeff Butler (Jean) and Judy McDonnieal (Ronnie); five grandchildren, Brooke Butler, Jeffrey Butler, Kelli Barquero (Javier), Brett McDonnieal (Lauren), Jena Harris (Preston); nine great-great grandchildren, Kayson Harris, Madilynne McDonnieal, Kohen Harris, Mason McDonnieal, Tomas’ Barquero, Adriana Barquero, Isabel Barquero, Corbin Butler, Mary Vivian Prince; daughter-in-law, Paulette Butler and special companion, Frances Kees.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Bonnie (Walker) Butler and son, Mike Butler.

Visitation for family and friends will be held on Saturday, January 2, 2021, at First Baptist Church in Magee, MS from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm. with the service at 3:00 pm. Interment will follow in Magee City Cemetery with Dr. Jim Taylor officiating.

Arrangements are entrusted with Tutor Funeral Home of Magee.