Newell F. Butler

Those Unable to Attend Newell's service may watch the live stream ~ Click Here

Newell Butler, a cherished and respected member of the Nichols community, passed peacefully into eternal rest on Thursday, December 12, 2024 at the Sayre Health Care Center. Born on October 8, 1936, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Newell's life was a testament to his kind, generous, and faith-filled spirit.

He was predeceased by his loving parents, Rev. C. Duane and Caroline (Fairchild) Butler, and his devoted wife and best friend Marilyn "Tommie" (Thomas) Butler; his cousins Charles Butler; Mary Ellen Raudenbush and her husband Gene; Althea Frink and her husband George; George Maines and wife Bea; June House and husband Carl; as well as Tommie's siblings: Edith  Thomas and  Llewellyn "Bud" and Thelma Thomas; brother-in-law: Ray Scheesley.

He is survived by his cousins Judith White and husband Richard; Donald Thomas; Millie Butler; along with dear friend and companion Marion Bennett and her family. In-laws that survived him are Carol Scheesley and family; Ellyn Saxton and husband Frank; David Thomas and wife Mary; and relatives of Herm and Alta Rathke.

An alumnus of Nichols Elementary School, Wyoming Seminary, Scranton-Lackawanna Business College, Lycoming College and Elmira College, Newell's educational journey laid a strong foundation for his successful career. For 34 years, he was a dedicated employee of IBM in Owego. His commitment to lifelong learning was unwavering.

Newell's community engagement was extensive and impactful. As a charter member of the Nichols-Tioga Lions Club and Nichols-Tioga Jaycees, as well as an active participant in the Order of Eastern Star No. 175, where he served as Patron and District Grand Lecturer (1982), he embodied the spirit of service. His dedication to the Nichols Masonic Lodge #333 F & AM was evident as he was Master three times and was also General Master and Master of Ceremonies for the 150th anniversary of Westbrook Lodge #333 on June 12, 2004. Newell received the Mason's Dedicated Service Award and had been a Mason for over 60 years.

He was involved with the Boy Scouts representing Westbrook Lodge #333 as one of the charter members for Troop 36 and Cub Pack 36, Nichols, NY. Newell was awarded the Daniel Beard Masonic Scouter Award for his contributions to scouting. Beyond these commitments, he supported the Friends of the Cady Library, the Tioga Sr. Citizens, and held various positions in the Lounsberry United Methodist Church.

His love for music was profound. Newell sang with the Lycoming College Acapella Travel Choir, the Valley Chorus (Waverly), Barbershop Chorus, and the Christmas Cantatas at the Nichols United and Lounsberry United Methodist churches, as well as in various other church choirs including the summer church at Lake Shehawken in Pennsylvania. His voice was a beacon of joy and harmony to all who had the pleasure of listening. An athlete and coach, Newell enjoyed playing softball and golf. He coached baseball for the 8-10 year olds at IBM as well as basketball and baseball for the 8-10 year olds at Tioga Central School inspiring young athletes with his passion and sportsmanship. His  involvement with the Boy Scouts as a charter representative for Troop 36 further showcased his dedication to nurturing the potential in others. Fishing, reading, attending vespers on the lake, summer choir, and relaxing with his parents and friends at Lake Shehawken, his "second home" with "Tommie" and Marion were among Newell's favorite pastimes. These tranquil moments reflected his appreciation for life's

simple pleasures and the beauty of nature. Newell and "Tommie" liked to travel around the United States to enjoy nature and music at Sight and Sound productions; Hawaii; and Branson, Missouri to which they traveled three times. Many places and landmarks were visited and enjoyed by Newell and "Tommie" to include the Grand Canyon, Old Faithful, Mount Rushmore, the mansion of Elvis Presley, the Grand Ole Opry (Ryman Auditorium) as well as the newer location at Opryland and the

Mormon Tabernacle Choir Hall. Newell also enjoyed foreign travel with trips to Germany, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.

In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." Newell indeed succeeded, as his life was a beacon of hope and a wellspring of generosity that touched many hearts. Newell's life journey was marked by an unwavering faith and a heart that always had room for more love. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, a community enriched by his contributions, and a family fortified by his example. As we bid farewell to Newell, wecelebrate a life well-lived and a soul that will forever illuminate the lives of those he touched.

Family and friends are invited to attend a period of visitation on Saturday, December 21st from 10 – 11 am at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St ., Nichols. A memorial service and celebration of his life will follow at 11 am.  Masonic Services will be conducted at the start of the service.   Those unable to attend may watch the live stream at:

https://my.gather.app/remember/newell-butler

Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting his guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com

Those who wish may kindly consider memorial contribution to the Nichols Tioga Lions Club - 2880 State Route 17C, Barton, NY 13734, Cady Library - PO Box 70, Nichols, NY 13812 or Lake Shehawken United Methodist Church, Box 104, Lake Como, PA 18437 in loving memory of Newell Butler.