Johnny Mitchell Butler, 75, a United States Navy veteran and longtime resident of Nichols, passed away at his home on Thursday, July 18, 2024. He was born in Marion County on June 16, 1949, the son of the late Riley Judson Butler and the late Eva Grainger Butler.

Mitchell enlisted in the United States Navy in 1968 and spent over twenty years serving his country as a brave and loyal soldier. Following his training at boot camp, Mitchell returned home and married his beloved late wife, Peggy. Soon after their marriage, he shipped out to begin his military career. He was a part of the Naval Seabees where he helped to build bases, camps, and other structures as a part of the war effort. Mitchell saw action in Vietnam and received numerous awards and medals for his service, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Good Conduct Medal.

Mitchell loved being in the outdoors whether it was fishing or camping. He loved his family, and nothing made him happier than having them around him. A teacher and motivator, he was always eager to inspire others to believe in themselves. His motto was "Can Do".

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife, Peggy Jean Pulley Butler.

He is survived by his loving daughter, Cynthia Jean Grainger and her fiancé, Brad Cribb; a sister, Beverly Butler Jernigan Page; two granddaughters, Kayla Celeste Grainger and Atlee Eva Grainger.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at Meares Funeral Home in Mullins. A funeral service with military honors will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, July 24th in the chapel of Meares Funeral Home.

An online guestbook is available at www.mearesfh.com.

Meares Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.