Tony Lee Butler was born October 31,1941, in Springfield, MO. He was the 8th of 18 children born to Fred and Ethel (Alexander) Butler.

Tony had a 23-year career with the United States Army, during which he served 2 tours in Vietnam. His decorations included a Silver Star and 2 Bronze Stars. After his retirement Tony enjoyed a very active life spending time with family, especially his granddaughter and his many hobbies. Tony had an ornery sense of humor. He always had a joke ready to share, and he had many of them! He was a classic car enthusiast with a special fondness for Corvettes. On weekends, you could often find him showing off his car at a car show or in a parade. Tony also enjoyed riding motorcycles. He especially enjoyed collecting toys for the Toys for Tots ride each year. For a time, Tony belonged to and rode with the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association. He continued to enjoy riding his Harley until illness prevented him from riding at the age of 80. Tony was a gun collector and was very knowledgeable about guns of all kinds. He loved researching them, learning about them, and talking about them. He lived a good life. He was very proud of his military service, his family and his accomplishments.

In addition to his parents, Tony was preceded in death by five brothers, Ray "Sonny" Butler, Gerald Butler, Harold Butler, David Butler, and Nelson Butler; and eight sisters, Mary Plemmons, Cleta Reynolds, Vanita Hammons, Betty Slone, Shirley Voigt, Pansy Owen, Helen Burns and Bobbie Stevens.

Tony is survived by his daughter, Regina (Robert); granddaughter, Loraina Reaves; two brothers, Paul Butler and Jimmy (Lynette) Butler; and two sisters, Violet (Mike) Miller and Dorothy (Rick) Peck; as well as a host of cousins, nieces and nephews.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Midwest Cremation and Funeral Services of Springfield, MO.