Anna Mae (Simpson) Butts

Lewis & Gillum Funeral Homes

28 Harding Avenue, Jackson, OH 45640

(p) 740-286-2010              (f) 740-286-5640

 (e) lewisgillumfh@gmail.com            (w) www.lewisgillum.com

Anna Butts peacefully entered the arms of her Lord and Savior on April 3, 2025, at the age of ninety-seven at the Jenkins Care Community.  She was born on March 12, 1928, to Orville L. Simpson and Ida Mae (Shook) Simpson.

Anna was raised in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio.  She was one of twelve siblings in a close-knit and loving family, where faith, resilience, and devotion to one another formed the foundation of her life. She was joined in Holy Matrimony to William Butts on October 4, 1947. They were married until his passing in August 2012. 

Anna was preceded in death by her husband William, her parents, sisters:  Virginia (Lowell) Hartley, Iva (Ben) Hutchison, Ruth (Harold) Exline, Florence (Sam) Lanford, and Margie (Chuck) Hembre; brothers:  Calvin (Marilyn} Simpson, Edwin (Doris) Simpson, George Simpson, and Larry (Marlene) Simpson; and a most beloved son-in-law, Dale Rose. She was also preceded in death by Winifred (Stanly) Bush, Dave (Jane) Butts, and Elizabeth (Wilson).

She is survived by her children, Judy (Lyndell) Mills, Nina Rose, William (Sandy) Butts, Jr., and Kevin (Kristin) Butts, 16 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildren, sister, Shirley (Dave) Backus, brother, Ted Simpson, sister-in-law Marlene Simpson, and countless nieces and nephews.

A woman of unwavering Christian faith, Anna lived her life as a reflection of Christ’s love. Her spirit, loyalty to her church family, and sweet nature touched everyone who knew her. Anna made it her mission to live in service to others and glorify God in all she did. She loved gospel music, reciting Scripture, and sewing. She made countless baby quilts for grandchildren and friends. Anna started each day by reading her Bible. She could recite verses until the end of her life. She was a selfless servant, volunteering at church extensively, and was a skilled caregiver; caring for her husband Bill before he had to enter the nursing home.

Family meant everything to Anna. Growing up in a bustling home full of shared prayers, and hard-earned values, she carried those cherished bonds throughout her life. She was fiercely loyal and endlessly supportive—a guiding light to her siblings, children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, all the children she knew, and extended family. Her presence brought comfort, joy, and a sense of unity that will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Though her earthly journey has come to an end, Anna’s legacy of faith, love, and devotion continues to shine in the lives she touched. Her family takes comfort in knowing that she is now reunited in Heaven with those who went before her, and that her soul rests in eternal peace. She will be dearly missed but is surely filled with joy to be in the presence of her Savior.

The family owes a debt of gratitude to the caring staff of Jenkins Care Community.  The caregivers adored her and she them. A special thank you to Kelsey Hendershot, Director of Nursing and beloved great niece of Anna.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Lewis & Gillum Funeral Home in Jackson, Ohio. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m.-2 p.m. on Monday, April 7, 2025 with a funeral service immediately following at 2 p,m. with Pastor Karen Farr officiating. Burial will follow at Fairmount Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent to www.lewisgillum.com.

“Her children rise up and call her blessed... A woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” — Proverbs 31:28,30