Kathleen "Kathy" Ann Butler

“We were born of stars and in death, we will return to them…”

Kathleen “Kathy” Ann Butler, 65, passed away in the company of her loving sisters on October 31st, 2026.

Kathy was born September 9th, 1961 in Louisville to parents Thomas and Roberta Butler. She was a graduate of Eastern Kentucky University, and worked a dedicated career as an occupational therapist.

A strong-hearted liberal, Kathy ferociously championed progressive causes and was never afraid to stand up to inequality. She loved Marilyn Monroe and the glamour of old Hollywood, and enjoyed watching old movies and reading books about romance. Her laugh was as infectious as it was beautiful. She was a proud pet parent and loved her rescue dogs, Nora, Riley, and Sunny. Kathy was an animal lover, having particular fondness for owls and bees. She loved traveling, especially to the beach on many family vacations. She enjoyed music, particularly the oldies, with Herman’s Hermits among her favorites. She also loved to dance.

One thing that really defined Kathy was her love for her family. If you asked her, she’d deny being simply lucky to have the family she did, she’d say, “I chose them when I was an egg in heaven”. We are proud and grateful she made that choice. 

Kathy was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s disease in January, 2018. She faced this devastating illness with tremendous courage, and bravely fought this horrible disease until her death. But Kathy was never defined by Alzheimer’s; she was defined by her laughter, her courage, her kindness, and the love she shared with family and friends.

Kathy’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Barton House for their extraordinary compassion, kindness, and loving care they provided Kathy - especially during the final days of her life.

She is preceded in death by her father, Thomas F. Butler Sr.; her mother, Roberta M. Butler; her brother, Thomas F. Butler Jr.; and her brother-in-law, James E. Osborne. Kathy is survived by her sisters, Karen M. Butler and Robin L. Bufkin (Mike); her niece, Kaitlyn M. Toloczko (Nick); her nephew, Stephen T. Bufkin; family friend Chet Ervin; and her kitty, Lily. Those she loved and those who loved her in turn will miss her every day.

Visitation will be 2pm to 6pm on Thursday, November 12th, 2026 at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals and Receptions, East Louisville Chapel, 235 Juneau Drive, Louisville, Kentucky, 40243. A celebration of Kathy’s life will follow at 6pm.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association