Johnny William Butts, age 90, of Cochran, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026, in the chapel of Mathis Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 12:00 P.M., followed by the funeral service at 1:00 P.M. Burial will be in Cedar Hill Cemetery.

Johnny was the son of the late Emmett Butts and Pauline Purser Butts. He was a lifelong resident of Cochran where he worked as a devoted cattle and hay farmer. He was known as one of the hardest working men of his time—a man whose hands told the story of a life spent providing for his family and tending the land he loved. His passion for his cows, baling hay, and keeping the farm running never faded. Even in his final days, he was still asking what needed to be done and making sure everything around the farm was taken care of. Work was never just work to Johnny; it was a reflection of his dedication, responsibility, and deep love for his family.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Edith H. Butts, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and partnership. He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Ruthie B. McCain, JE Butts, Sara Ann Butts and Sue B. Hall.

Johnny leaves behind a family who cherished him deeply: his brother, Wallace Butts (Margaret) of Cochran; his daughter, Catherine "Cathy" Johnson of Cochran; his son, Charles "Chuck" Johnson of Cochran; his grandchildren, Carrie J. Dykes (Jason) of Chester, , Michael P. Johnson of Cochran, Carlie Johnson of Cochran, Eric Johnson and Amanda Johnson of North Carolina; his great-grandchildren, SeanPaul Riley Johnson of Cochran, Lane Dykes (Kaylee) of Pineview and Dacee Logan Johnson of Chester; and his great-great-granddaughter, Railyn Blayke Johnson of Chester. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and extended family members whom he truly cherished.

Those who knew Johnny knew they could count on him. He would do anything for anyone in a time of need—and often far beyond that. His generosity, quiet strength, and steady presence made him a cornerstone in the lives of so many. When the work was done, he found joy in simple pleasures, especially listening to the comedy of Ray Stevens and Jerry Clower, whose humor brought him many smiles over the years.

Johnny's legacy is one of unwavering devotion—to his family, his land, and his word. His work ethic, kindness, and deep-rooted love will continue to live on in the fields he tended and in the hearts of those who loved him. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.