Elizabeth Kay Anderson Butler, of Trenton, Texas, was called to her eternal life, leaving this earthly home to enter her heavenly home on Monday, January 19, 2026. Though she has departed this world, she will live on in the hearts of the many who knew her well and loved her dearly.
Kay was born on May 28, 1938, in Trenton/ Randolph, Texas, to the late Mary Charles Fuller Anderson and O.C. “Toby” Anderson. She graduated from Trenton High School in 1956 and went on to pursue higher education at East Texas State University in Commerce, where she was a member of Kalir Sorority and earned her degree in Education. She later taught second grade at Trenton Elementary School for a few years.
On July 26, 1958, Kay married the love of her life, Jimmie Reed “Jim” Butler, at the Trenton Methodist Church. She often shared what she fondly referred to as their “fairytale life,” saying, “Jim and I picked each other out when I was in the second grade in Sunday School. We both grew up on Pearl Street in Trenton, married, and lived happily ever after. Our life has been a blessing, and our love for our children has been our fairytale.” Their marriage of 64 years was a testament to faith, devotion, and enduring love.
Jim and Kay were blessed with four children: daughters Beverly, Kimberly, and Kristy, and son J. Reed. In addition, at the untimely passing of her beloved best friend and sister-in-law, Beverly Mac Butler Alexander, Kay became a devoted second mother to her children—John, Laurie, and Rodney Alexander—loving them as her own.
Kay was the epitome of a wise and loving mother. It was often said that she was “born to be a mother.” Her family and her home were her pride and joy, and she was a devoted, godly woman—“more precious than rubies.” She was often asked if she had seven “only children,” as each one believed they were her favorite. Kay delighted in nurturing each child’s unique personality and talents, offering constant encouragement and unconditional love.
After her children were grown, Kay discovered a deep passion for miniature horses. What began as an “empty nest” gift from Jim—one tiny miniature horse—grew into a championship herd of more than 150 miniature horses. A natural nurturer, Kay extended her care not only to her family but also to animals, flower gardens, and her tropical fishpond. Her beloved menagerie included peacocks, doves, fainting goats, koi, and flamboyant bantam roosters—some with spirited personalities.
Together, Kay and Jim enjoyed great success showing miniature horses, earning numerous awards, including Best of Color with their registered black leopard Appaloosa and National Grand Champion Get of Sire honors. Their shared love of western heritage led them to collect and trade western memorabilia, resulting in their induction into The Bit and Spur Collectors Hall of Fame, with a feature article in The Cattleman magazine.
Kay and Jim also operated Butler Cattle Company, raising purebred Charolais, Maine Anjou, and White Park cattle. As charter members of the Texas Bluebonnet Charolais Association, they raised champion breeding lines and competed successfully at major livestock shows, earning many trophies.
Kay was always a gracious hostess, embodying true Southern hospitality. She lived with such a positive and encouraging attitude hosting numerous occasions in their beloved Reed homeplace. She never knew how many guests Jim might invite for supper or holiday meals, yet there was always room at her table. Her kitchen was affectionately known as the “Grand Central Station of Trenton,” with a window that served as “central control,” overlooking the miniature horse pastures. Where onlookers frequently watched newborn miniatures play.
Following her teaching career, Kay along with daughter Kimberly, traveled with Jim through his work with Berryhill Auction Company, where he served as auctioneer and she as his clerk—a talented team. Together, they traveled to all 50 U.S. states, with favorite destinations including Cody, Wyoming; Santa Fe, New Mexico; and Estes Park, Colorado. One of Kay’s most cherished experiences was seeing the Redwood Forests for the first time. They also enjoyed international travel, with London and Turkey among her favorites. Of all places, however, Kay loved home most—surrounded by family, friends, and horses.
Kay’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. Her devoted study of the Bible and preparation for Sunday School were daily priorities. Known affectionately as “Kay Kay,” she loved the Lord deeply and was faithful in prayer for countless family members and friends. To know Mama was to love her.
Kay was the matriarch of a large, loving family and a source of wisdom, comfort, and unconditional love. She was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents, as well as her beloved husband of 64 years, Big Jim Butler who has awaited her arrival in heaven for 4 years and 4 days.
Those left to cherish her memory include her daughters Beverly Bain Butler Hall and husband Kelly of Henderson; Kimberly Kay Butler Jestis and husband Chuck of Montague; Kristy Betina Butler Stringer and husband Chris of Trenton; and her son Dr. J. Reed Butler and wife Jessica of Bartlesville, Oklahoma.
Her grandchildren are Kayla Mann (Russell) of Prosper; Kylee Mann (Rex) of Southlake; Kamryn Jones (Cody) of Henderson; Preston Jestis (Brittany) of Sealy; Jaycee Jestis (Dylan) of Denton; Daxton Reed Butler and Ella Annette Butler of Bartlesville, Oklahoma; and Riley Stringer and Reed Stringer of Trenton.
Her great-grandchildren include Malley, Macy, and Mark Kelly Mann; Presley Kay and Berkley Annette Mann; Collier Bain, Jordie Beth, and Kip Alexander Jones; Sophira and Axel Jestis; Elliot Henson; and Oliver, Henry, and Alice Mae King.
Also cherishing her memory are John Alexander (Annie), Laurie Alexander, and Rodney Alexander (Mandi) of Trenton; their children Blaine Alexander (Kirby) and daughter Willa Jean; Katelyn Parsons (Chase) and daughter Emerson; Ashley and Aubrey Alexander.
Among Kay’s greatest treasures were her friends near and far including her inner circle Mary Ann and cousin the late Jimmy Wayne Anderson, the late Johnny Paul and cousin Diane Stephens; Bonnie and the late Lewis Donaghey, the late Barbara and Don Lewis; Dr. Jeannie Cecile Kitchings; Miss Donna Todd; Lucy Stringer; “the Ladies of South Pearl Street”; and the dear members of her Sunday School class and the First United Methodist Church of Trenton, too numerous to name individually.
A private family graveside memorial service will be held this week to honor a life well lived and to celebrate the legacy of faith and family she leaves behind, with Reverend Wayne Walters of Maybank officiating.
The Butler family extends heartfelt gratitude to Home Instead and Centric Hospice of Sherman, Texas, for their compassionate care.
Arrangements are entrusted to Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home of Leonard, Texas.
Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.