Mary Jo (Christian) Butler

Mary Jo Butler, age 91 of Dongola, died on Sunday, March 16, 2025 at SIH Hospital in Herrin. She was born July 29, 1933 in Perks, the daughter of Clarence and Opal Mae (Price) Christian. She married Wayne Lee "Smokie" Butler on January 31, 1975 in Vienna. He preceded her in death on July 26, 2021.

Mary Jo was a member of the Gospel Assembly Church in Anna and Maple Grove Baptist Church in Perks. She worked tirelessly for almost forty years at Choate Mental Health, dedicated to the residents that she cared for. Mary Jo had a strong work ethic; she was loved and admired by many who knew and worked with her.  She was a change maker, serving as an advocate for those who could not speak for themselves.

Mary Jo enjoyed taking motorcycle trips with her husband Wayne. They often took weekend getaways, trips to the Carolinas to visit family, up the Eastern Seaboard, and a memorable 3-week trip out west visiting many points of interest. She loved their farm, caring for the animals, attending farm sales and auctions, and was an avid gardener. Mary Jo, more than anything, loved her family and spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Mary Jo is survived by her daughter and son in law, Regina and Daniel Osman of Anna; sister, Ruby Mish of Panama City, Florida; grandchildren, Josh and Kelly Osman of Fort Mill, SC, Liza Osman of Anna; great-grandchildren, Tyler Osman of Sikeston, MO, Jackson Osman of Fort Mill, SC, Noah Wayne Pollard of Dongola and Evanne Osman of Anna; bonus great granddaughters, Megan Rule and Kiley Coates; and step-daughter, Glenna Miller. She was preceded in death by her parents, first husband, Caroll Leon Hight, her beloved son Michael Leon Hight and brothers, Gene and Glenn Christian, and loving sister Marjorie Loudean Herren.

A service to celebrate the life of Mary Jo Butler will be held Thursday, March 20, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Rendleman and Hileman Funeral Home in Anna with Rev. Gaylon Holden officiating. Interment will be in the American Legion Cemetery in Dongola. Memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer's Association or to the American Lung Association envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

The family would like to thank the dedicated caregivers who loved and cared for both Wayne and Mary Jo during the past several years, as well as the dedicated and loving staff of Reflections Memory Care in Carterville.

"The world changes from year to year, our lives from day to day, but the love and memory of you shall never pass away."