Jonny William Butler, Jr., 81, of Radford, passed away Sunday, April 12, 2026.
A proud “Dublin Duke” at heart, Jonny was equally defined by his unwavering loyalty as a Bobcat, a Hokie, and a lifelong Miami Dolphins fan. Jonny held a unique place in local history as one of the first male students to attend Radford University. Born July 18, 1944, his life was marked by a profound sense of service, beginning with his time in the U.S. Army. The commitment to his community culminated in a distinguished career with the Radford Police Department where he rose to the rank of Deputy Chief and completed the prestigious FBI National Academy. Beyond his professional achievements, Jonny was an avid traveler and a master gardener who took great joy in ensuring the local hummingbirds were always well-fed. Jonny passed away peacefully surrounded by the warmth of his family and has gone to his lord’s home to join his beloved wife, Carolyn. Along with his beloved wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, Johnny William, Sr. and Cynthia Farmer Butler, and his daughter, Jaime Butler.
Survivors include his sons, Kevin Butler, Darin Smith, and Brian Smith; daughter and son-in-law, Donna Hall (Brian); grandchildren, Caleb, Tyler, Leah, Meah, Katie, Sierra and Ethan; three great-grandchildren; sister, Frances Lee Lawson; nephews, Patrick and Jason Lawson; and numerous other family members and special friends.
The family received friends Monday, April 20, 2026, at the Mullins Funeral Home in Radford, followed by funeral services. Interment with full military honors will take place at 2:30 p.m. at the Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery in Dublin.
Flowers are appreciated or you may donate to the F.O.P. Lodge 21, https://fop.net/lodge/new-river-valley-lodge-21/.
The Butler family is in the care of Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory in Radford.
