Wayne Ray Butler

Wayne Ray Butler, a devoted family man and Marine veteran, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026, at the age of 91. He was surrounded by his family in Shelley, Idaho, the community he loved and served for so many years. His stories and smile and warm personality will be missed.

The first of 7 children and the only son, Wayne was born November 11, 1934, in Chinook, Montana, to Ray and Thelma Butler. His early childhood was spent in Chinook on the family sugar beet farm.

In 1943, his family moved to Bonneville County in Southeast Idaho. During his teenage years he spent a lot of time with his grandfather, Eli Arnold Wadsworth, where he learned many of life’s valuable lessons. His favorite was fishing on Taylor Creek. Grandpa Eli Arnold and Wayne would pack up the old pickup with fishing gear and a bag of lunch supplies from grandma which included a large loaf of homemade bread and a huge chunk of cheese. Wayne said the best meals he had were fresh creek fish fried in a skillet stacked between slices of bread and cheese. Grandpa and Wayne shared a special relationship that lasted beyond this life. Wayne also had a love for riding his Indian motorcycle up along the foothills of Idaho Falls.

After graduating from Bonneville High School, he promptly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He was very proud to be a Marine. Right after enlisting, Wayne was sent to San Diego, California, recruiting depot for basic training with Platoon 105. Among his duties Wayne trained others to operate the big amphibious tractors from the naval vessel onto the beaches. Wayne was honored as top marksman during his basic training. His heart loved nothing more than to listen to his beloved Marine Corps Marching Band.

After his service, Wayne returned home. One Sunday morning while waiting for church services to start, he was standing in the foyer of the church when a beautiful girl walked in with the most lovely smile and said “hello.” It was then he knew he’d found the love of his life. Arla Jenkins unknowingly stole Wayne’s heart that sunny Sunday morning. On March 18, 1958, they were sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple.

Wayne attended Ricks College and eventually graduated from Utah State University where he studied Agronomy. While still in college, the young couple began their family and eventually welcomed 6 children.

After his service in the military and graduation from college, he worked for U & I Sugar Company in Blackfoot, Idaho. Later he thought about becoming his own boss and chose to farm. He grew sugar beets and grain while also raising hogs on farms in the areas of Thomas, Howe and Arco, Idaho. After farming, Wayne spent years driving long-haul trucks across the country for Arlo G. Lott Trucking.

At the time of his passing, Wayne had 32 grandchildren and 53 great-grandchildren. Wayne loved visits from family, neighbors & friends. Most beloved moments during his later years were visits and chats from his children and grandchildren. Adding visits from his great-grandchildren were especially welcomed.

After retirement, his hobbies included gardening and woodworking and he enjoyed making furniture for his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Wayne was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served quietly and faithfully in many callings and loved the friendships he made. Among the things he loved most were his faith, family and friends, which defined his character and his outlook on life. He would welcome you with a greeting of a warm smile and handshake that would quickly melt your heart.

Wayne is survived by his children: Bryce (Ruth) Butler of Firth, ID; Nancy (Lynn) Rockwood of Iona, ID; Lynn (Kristen) Butler of Shelley, ID; Annette (Andy) Lott of Jerome, ID; Calvin (Laurie) Butler of Shelley, ID; and Gary (Jennifer) Butler of Charleston, SC and his 32 grandchildren and 53 great-grandchildren. Wayne is also survived by his sisters: Elaine Robinson, Carol Holm, Donna Empey and Patsy Vaughn.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Arla; his parents, Ray and Thelma Butler and his sisters, Marlene Butler and Marilyn Ray.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 A.M. Monday, January 26, 2026, at the Taylor Third Ward Chapel (1101 East 1250 North). The family will meet with friends Sunday evening from 6:00 till 7:30 P.M. at Nalder Funeral Home (110 West Oak) in Shelley and Monday morning from 10:00 till 10:45 A.M. at the church. Burial will be in the Taylor Cemetery with Military Rites.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.nalderfuneralhome.com.