Port Tobacco resident, Carole Anne Williams Butler, passed away on February 10, 2019 surrounded by her loving family. Born March 19, 1944 in Portsmouth, VA to Clarence M. and Agnes H. Williams, she attended Woodrow Wilson High School and pursued studies at Old Dominion University.

Carole was a fiercely devoted mother to her three boys, ABEC Fenoy W. (Sara) Butler II, USN (Ret.), Fletcher W. (Shannon) Butler, Sr., and CPT Ferris W. (Laura) Butler, USA (Ret.). Carole was the beloved wife and best friend to her love of 49 years, CW04 Fenoy W. Butler, USN (Ret.). Married in 1969 at St. Paul's Catholic Church in Portsmouth, she became a dedicated military spouse, homemaker, and eventually a blue star mother. Throughout her husband's 26-year Naval career, she traveled the country to various duty stations.

After raising her children, Carole completed her Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Maryland and pursued a career as a freelance writer for the Maryland Independent and the Washington Post. She had a passion for gardening and became a Maryland Certified Master Gardener, which was evident in her countless perfectly tended flowerbeds. In retirement, she cherished time with her three grandchildren (Fletcher II, Peyton, and Aurora), mastered the art of quilt making, and continued to be the glue that held her family together. Her infectious laugh and immeasurable love for her family are deeply missed.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and only brother Clarence A. Williams. She is survived by her immediate family along with nieces and nephew: Patricia W. (Steve/Carlton/Kyle) Sterling; Michael A. Williams; Joan W. Galaviz.

The family wishes to thank the care team at Inova Heart and Vascular Institute ICU for their caring professionalism, compassion, and kindness. A private celebration of life has been planned and Carole will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Carole's name to the American Horticulture Society.