James "Tom" Butler

James “Tom” Butler, 64, of Kansas City, KS, passed away on Friday, September 5, 2025, at his home surrounded by family. He was born on February 14, 1961, in Kansas City, MO, the son of James Robert and Zelma G. Butler. For 14 months, Tom battled extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer that metastasized into other organs. Together, Tom and Cheryl fought it with everything they had. Tom was a man of little words though his looks told it all. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life - building anything from wood, riding motorcycles and photographing. Tom had the unique ability to do anything that involved his hands, whether simple or complex, with no drawings or measurements. The true test of his creativity and skills were exemplified upon the completion of ‘his home’ in 2003. He was the general contractor, laborer, supervisor and financer. He did it all except drywall and molding installation. Tom cruised highways and curvy back roads on his bike (and auto) with his “brothers” for thousands of miles across the US and Canada. He enjoyed the ‘ride’ - the sights, sounds, smells and freedom of the open road. Tom’s family was not limited to his blood family. He developed deep lifetime bonds with Rosedale families/kids that span from childhood to end of life – the Clark’s, the Romero’s, the Casteel’s, the Burkholder’s, Kevin and Debbie Taylor, and numerous others. And then he had his Payless family from Store #35 NKC and #251 Kansas City, KS – too numerous to list. He was known at PCI as “Tommy B” and his famous Rosedale parties. He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Butch; his sister, Janie; his “brothers” – George Romero and Daniel Clark; and father-in-law – Eugene “Shorty” Millard. Survivors include his wife of 36 years, Cheryl. Also surviving are “sister”, Tina Romero, two brothers – Larry Butler and Carson Butler; sister-in-law, Cindy (Pat) Waldron; mother-in-law, Deanna Millard; nieces, Taylor Forbis and Courtney Romero; nephews Stephen Tadlock and Bobby Butler; and as well as other numerous nieces/nephews. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at Maple Hill Funeral Home. Funeral services will take place at 10:00 AM on Thursday, September 11, 2025, also at Maple Hill Funeral Home, with burial to follow at Maple Hill Cemetery. Informal dress is encouraged. Blue jean and shorts are welcome. In leu of flowers, please consider contributing to the American Cancer Society in memory of Tom. After the burial, the family will gather in Kansas City, KS near 78th Street & Kansas Avenue. Please bring a covered dish, a lawn chair and drink. Address will be provided at the visitation/service or message/text Tina Romero for details.

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James "Tom" Butler

February 14, 1961 - September 5, 2025