Charles Patrick Butler

Charles Patrick “Pat” Butler, 80, U.S. Navy Veteran of Elizabethtown, N.C., passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home on Friday, April 24, 2026. He was born on October 17, 1945, in Lumberton, North Carolina, to the late Charles Vernon Butler and Daphne Holt Butler of Elizabethtown.

Pat was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Vernon Butler and Daphne Holt Butler, and by his two older brothers, Thomas Vernon Butler and Michael Herbert Butler. He is survived by his sisters-in-law and by many nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-nieces who loved him dearly and will miss his stories, humor, and steady presence.

Pat proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. For wounds received in combat action, he was awarded three Purple Hearts. He also received the Vietnam Service Medal, along with other awards and recognition for his service in Vietnam.

After his service in the Navy, Pat returned home and joined the family business, Butler Machinery, in Elizabethtown, N.C., where he worked side by side with his father. The shop was a familiar and much-loved place for the Butler men. His nephews loved visiting there, listening to the stories, and soaking up some of the machinery knowledge the Butler men seemed to inherently possess. Pat worked daily alongside his dad and helped carry on the family business. After Butler Machinery closed, Pat went on to work at Bladen Community College, a natural fit for someone who enjoyed figuring out how things worked and helping keep them running. He enjoyed his years there, valued his colleagues, and made many friends.

Pat was known for his devotion to his family, especially the loyal and loving care he gave to his mother after his father’s passing. Because of Pat’s daily care, she was able to remain in her home well into her late 90s. He brought her meals, sat with her each evening, looked after her needs, and handled the many quiet responsibilities that allowed her to stay in the home she loved. Those evenings became a treasured part of their routine, filled with conversation, laughter, and the quiet bond between mother and son.

His nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-nieces could always count on Uncle Pat for advice about fixing almost anything, a memorable story, and plenty of laughter. After the passing of Thomas and Michael, his nephews especially turned to their Uncle Pat for talks, guidance, and a treasured connection to their Butler family history.

Pat will be remembered for his service to his country, his loyalty to his family, his practical wisdom, his dry humor, and the steady presence he gave to those who loved him.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, May 4, 2026 at 1:00pm at Old Trinity Methodist Church, 311 E. Broad Street, Elizabethtown, North Carolina with Pastor Dale Taylor officiating. 

Bladen-Gaskins Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.