Harry Thomas “Tom” Butler entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at the age of 78.
Tom was born on October 17, 1946, in Newport News, Virginia, to the late Robert Alexander Butler and Susie Thomas Butler. A 1965 graduate of Warwick High School, he was known for his exceptional athletic ability, excelling in both baseball and basketball. He continued his athletic pursuits at Old Dominion College, where he played as a pitcher on the baseball team and as a forward-guard on the basketball team.
Tom never shied away from hard work. During his college summers, he worked as a framer—a skill that became a lifelong passion. After earning his Bachelor of Science in Physical Education, he married the love of his life, Linda Graham, and began his career as an educator with Newport News Public Schools. In 1974, he completed a Master of Science in Education at Old Dominion University, the same year he and Linda welcomed their first daughter, Virginia.
Throughout his long and dedicated career in education, Tom served in many roles at Denbigh High School, including Physical Education Teacher, Baseball Coach, Department Chair, Driver’s Education Instructor, Athletic Director, and Assistant Principal of Operations. Following his retirement, he continued to share his talents in various positions, including Principal at New Horizons, Executive Director of Riverside Wellness Center in Richmond, and in several roles in real estate development.
A hands-on and tireless worker, Tom enjoyed staying busy putting his intelligence, athleticism, and craftsmanship to good use. In the 1990s, he began a passionate hobby of building custom homes throughout Hampton Roads. He and Linda especially enjoyed building colonial reproduction homes and furnishing them with historically inspired pieces. Together, they also loved camping, attending church, and spending time with family.
Tom was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 53 years, Linda Butler; their infant son, Paul Thomas; his brother and best friend, Robert “Bob” Butler; and his parents.
He is survived by his daughters, Virginia Carver (Randy) of Apex, NC, and Amy Jordan (Thomas) of Hampton, VA; and his four cherished grandchildren: Andrew, Kaitlyn, Alexis, and Hunter. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Susan Butler of Colorado Springs, CO; his brother-in-law, Dr. Louis Graham (Ann) of Forest, VA; and six nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 2, at 10:00 a.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home, 1144 Warwick Blvd, Newport News, VA 23661, followed by interment at Peninsula Memorial Park.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Hidenwood Assisted Living, Riverside Hospital Services, and his devoted caregiver, Emma Edwards, for their compassion and support. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Association, the Newport News Education Foundation, or a charity of your choice.
4 Comments
Tommy and Linda were both classmates of mine at Warwick High School, class of 1965. Lovely people. I will miss seeing and talking with Tommy at the Hidenwood Assisted Living. Sincere condolences to his daughters and family.
I was sad to hear that Tom lost his battle with cancer but love that he and Linda are reunited in the presence of Jesus. They are two of the nicest people we got to know well living here in Williamsburg. Their faith, love of family, generosity, church, country and especially watching their grandchildren grow were so important. Very special people who will be missed by so many.
Tommy and Bobby were my first cousins. Our families enjoyed so many times good together, and I will cherish each and every memory. Looking back, I remember Tommy as a talented musician, a comedian, and someone who always had a smile on his face. All to say, he kept the families entertained at all times. My sister, Pam, passed away several years ago, so I suspect that she has welcomed Tommy to their new home with open arms.
I am very sorry for the loss of your Dad and my friend at Denbigh. Please know that I shall keep you in my prayers, Amy.