Col. Steven E. "Ret." Butler USA

Col. Steven E. "Ret." Butler USA obituary

Col. Steven E. "Ret." Butler USA

Steven Butler Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Heritage Gardens Funeral Home, Cemetery & Crematory on Jul. 16, 2025.

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Colonel Steven E. Butler, 73, of Niceville, Florida, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on July 15, 2025. He was born on January 26, 1952, in Maryland.

A proud alumnus of Clemson University, Steven went on to serve honorably in the United States Army and achieved the honor of full bird colonel. In addition to that he also dedicated his time to teaching ROTC and mentoring future service members. He was involved in a big brother program and helped many under-privileged children, and changed so many lives through this. He was known not only for his service but for his unwavering loyalty to his favorite sports teams, the Clemson Tigers and Washington Redskins.

He became a large part of the community of Niceville and frequented JoJo's for his morning coffee, and Hurricanes to relax and talk with his many friends. He enjoyed cruises, a good crossword puzzle, and most of all, treasured the time he spent with his grandchildren. He was a beloved father, a loyal friend, and a man with a truly one-of-a-kind personality and sense of humor. His smile could light up any room.

Steven is preceded in death by his parents, Jean and Samuel Butler. He is survived by his brothers Michael and John Butler, his sister Bonnie Smollett, his daughter Sara Marsico, and son-in-law Dan Marsico, his foster son Jason Harwell, as well as five grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Niceville, Florida. His final resting place will be at Arlington National Cemetery.

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Sign Steven Butler's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

July 26, 2025

Ronny Bergeron posted to the memorial.

July 24, 2025

Deb (Wecker) Milans posted to the memorial.

July 18, 2025

Roger D Stewart posted to the memorial.

6 Entries

Ronny Bergeron

July 26, 2025

I enjoyed talking with you at the 50th reunion Steve. You will never be forgotten. Please rest in peace, Ron Bergeron

Deb (Wecker) Milans

July 24, 2025

I was so saddened to hear of Steve´s passing. I´ve known Steve since 2nd grade where we both attended Four Corners Elementary School in Silver Spring, MD. Steve was always the kindest guy and his face never changed...maybe a few more lines but still the same Steve. While I hadn´t seen him for many years, when we stood for our elementary school group photo at our 50th HS reunion, he caught my eye, flashed his megawatt smile and stretched his arm across the group for a fast fist bump! My sincere condolences to his family and many friends. RIP Steve.

In the elementary school picture, Steve is in the middle row 4th from left and I´m at the extreme right, same row. In the elementary school group photo from our 50th HS reunion, Steve is standing 2nd from right and I´m sitting front row, far left. Good memories!

Roger D Stewart

July 18, 2025

So sorry to hear of Steves passing. RIP Steve

Crystal Cross Hamilton

July 18, 2025

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

Deborah Jones

July 18, 2025

I only met Steve one time when Bonnie and I visited him in Destin but he made a lasting impression on me. He was so happy and funny. It was crazy to find out that he went to Clemson with people I know at the same time I was traveling down there on weekends. I will never forget Steve. He is totally unforgettable. I am so sorry that this happened to him. Love to the whole family!

Bonnie Butler Smollett

July 18, 2025

Steve,

You will be in my heart and soul forever. I will miss our chats about American Idol, family, Trump and the many nightly phone calls just to chat. I love you Bro and my heart is breaking but I am so very glad myself and the family were there in your last hours. See you on the other side!

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2201 Partin Dr N, Niceville, FL 32578

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Sign Steven Butler's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

July 26, 2025

Ronny Bergeron posted to the memorial.

July 24, 2025

Deb (Wecker) Milans posted to the memorial.

July 18, 2025

Roger D Stewart posted to the memorial.