Elder Freddie L. Butler was born on January 20, 1949, in Palestine, Texas, to the parentage of Sam "Big S" Butler, Sr., and Elizabeth "Liz" Butler. He was the second of nine children and affectionately nicknamed "Chip" by his grandmother, due to his inability to cut woodchips for the wood heater.

He completed his education in the Palestine Independent School District at  A.M. Story High School, consistently ranking in the top 10% of his class or higher. After graduating from high school in 1967 with honors, Freddie attended Prairie View A&M University, where he majored in Engineering. Freddie later transferred to Jarvis Christian College in Hawkins, Texas, where he received much encouragement from his aunt and cousin, the late Betty Jean Eiglebiger and the late Janice Cofer. He continued his education at Texas College, where he received his Bachelor of Science Degree.

Freddie a lifelong learner always wanted to increase his knowledge in the field of Education. After graduating from Texas College, he furthered his education by attending the University of Texas at Tyler, where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics with an emphasis in Education.

After receiving his degree at the University of Texas at Tyler, Freddie met and married his loving and sweet wife, Jeanette Wilhite Butler, on September 23, 1976. To this union, one child was born, Frederick L. Butler, who preceded him in death. Later, the man of God added godchildren to this union: his sister Sheila Butler; his niece Elizabeth Cornell Butler; goddaughters Chrisettia Thompson and Lovettia Thompson; cousin Josette Cofer Shankle; Reginald Johnson Jr., and his precious granddaughter Fredrea' Lynette Butler.

Freddie and Jeanette were always together, enjoying the things they did best. Both of them loved to teach children about education and the word of God. This was clearly exemplified in their interactions with family members. When you saw Sheila, Freddie's baby sister, or Fredrea', his granddaughter/niece, you witnessed the impact of their teaching and training. Freddie faithfully read to Fredrea' the Bible daily and she was always eager to learn and share those moments together with her "Dadda".

If he wasn't studying his Bible lesson, he was working his math problems. Freddie loved listening to his favorite news station, MSNBC, daily. "It was important for him to stay current with what was going on in our nation."

He began his employment at the New York Store, in Tyler serving in various positions (stocking, carrying mail to the post office, and gift wrapping, where he could create some of the most beautiful bows). He was employed as a Math Teacher at Hubbard Middle School for seven years. Freddie was then approached by the superintendent to transfer to John Tyler High School to assist with improving math test scores. He remained at John Tyler High School for 18 years, giving him a total of 25 years of teaching in the Tyler Independent School District (T.I.S.D.).

Freddie worked nights as a part-time professor at Tyler Junior College for 15 years. He retired in 2010, having dedicated himself to both his full-time teaching career and his commitment to supporting his loved ones. His hard work paid off, and in 2010, he retired and celebrated by purchasing a brand-new 2010 Buick LaCrosse as a testament to his dedication and perseverance.

Freddie was privileged to receive recognition in the 8th edition (2003-2004) of Who's Who Among America's Teachers with a plaque that read: "Honoring Our Nation's Most Respected Teachers." This recognition stands as a testament to his dedication and excellence in education. He was so excited to receive such a highly distinguished award.

After retiring from T.I.S.D., and resting just a few months, he began working again at Brownsboro I.S.D. as a substitute teacher for 13 years. He faithfully fulfilled these duties until he was no longer able to work.

Ministry

Freddie received his calling as minister of the Gospel at the age of 19 years old by the late Jesse Douglas Hamilton, Sr., on November 2, 1991. He was sent to work with the older ministers where he learned various crafts such as wiring, plumbing, flooring, painting, and drywall. It was after learning these skills that he was able to build his dream home. He would say to his wife, "Jeanette, anything that I can do with my hands I will not pay for anyone else to do." Freddie preached the gospel without fear or favor until the Lord called him home. He enjoyed teaching Sabbath School every Saturday morning, and always punctual.

Elder Freddie L. Butler's life was a testament to his unwavering faith, dedication to education, and love for his family. His devotion to teaching extended beyond the classroom, influencing not only his students but also his family and community.

He always strived for excellence and perfection in his life, and after becoming a teacher, he instilled this same philosophy in his students. "Failure was not an option in his vocabulary; he firmly believed that anyone could succeed at whatever they set out to do if they would only try and not give up."

He also enjoyed cooking the most important meal of the day, "breakfast". His niece Tatum would say when she visited during the summers, "Uncle Freddie, no one could fix oatmeal and French toast better than you." His favorite foods were steak, baked potato, and salad. Freddie enjoyed good home-cooked meals and loved when his wife would prepare his favorite desserts, which were pecan pie and banana pudding.

Freddie's love for cooking, especially BBQ, and his joy in sharing these meals with family during holidays, created lasting memories for his nieces and nephews. They loved it because it was always "so tender and falling off the bone with the right touch of that East Texas seasoning."

Elder Freddie L. Butler's life was rich with faith, knowledge, love, and dedication. His legacy is evident in the lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the students he inspired. His devotion to teaching, both academically and spiritually, will continue to influence and inspire future generations. Freddie leaves us to rest from his labor and leaves behind a legacy of excellence, love, and unwavering faith. His ability to combine his spiritual teachings with practical skills made him a respected figure in his community. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Sam Butler, Sr., and mother Elizabeth Butler, two sisters, Lorene Lyles, and Sheila Butler, one brother, Cornelius Butler, Aunts: Rose Morrow, Corine Asberry, Louise Daniels, Mattie Henderson, and Betty Eiglebiger. Three Uncles: Charlie Davis, Johnny Davis, and Don Ray Davis Sr.

He leaves to celebrate his legacy his loving wife of 47 years, Jeanette Wilhite Butler. Granddaughter/niece, Fredrea' L. Butler. Five siblings, Sam Butler Jr. (Jackie), Alvin Butler, Ron Lewis Butler, Alice Butler, and  Jean Butler.  Aunt Mae Frances Davis. His immediate Godchildren: Reginald Johnson Jr., Dr. Chrisettia Morgan, Lovettia Johnson, Gene Johnson, Josette Cofer Shankle, Elizabeth Cornell Butler, and a host of other Godchildren. His beloved in-laws, Robert L. Wilhite, (Martha), Bedford R. Wilhite, (Faye) and Keithland D. Wilhite. Cousins: Annie L. Clay, Marian Middleton, and Charles Wilhite. Special Friends: Mr. Billy Beasley, Mrs. Sherry Clyde, Mrs. Stella Jones, and Mrs. Ara Hollis. A host of nieces and nephews and above all his dear and wonderful pastor and wife, Pastor Curtis L. and Sister Elsie D. Purvey, Mother Hester Crawford and Mother Patsy Jackson, his church family, and Sister Peggy Daniels, Sister Patricia Johnson, Brother Barry Baines, and the entire Sabbath School.