Mildred "Millie" Butcher

Our dear Mother, Mildred “Millie” Louise (Cade) Butcher (85) passed away October 21, 2023, in Phoenix, Arizona surrounded by her loving family.

Born March 25, 1938 in Johnson City, Tennessee to Hubert Fred & Lottie (Tyree) Cade. She had five siblings, Stella, Mary, Mabel, Thelma, and one brother, Bill. All have preceded her in death. She was the youngest sibling and will now be reunited with her family she loved so dearly.

Millie grew up and completed high school in Johnson City, Tennessee, then moved to Tampa, Florida. It was there she fell in love, married Marlin H. Butcher and started a family. She, her husband and their two young children, Kim and Jeff left Florida and traveled overseas for several years. When they returned to the US in 1973, they moved to Phoenix, Arizona. 

Millie was a homemaker and after taking time to raise her children, to the teen years, she returned to the workforce as an Executive Secretary with an insurance company. She later worked and retired from the Central Arizona Project (CAP) after 20+ years of service and many friendships. 

She was a constant light in the lives of those who knew and loved her. She had a beautiful smile, an infectious laugh, loved country music and animals. She radiated kindness, compassion, humor, wisdom, integrity, and had an immense love for her children, grandchildren, and friends. She never met a stranger.

She was a devoted mother and grandmother. She was a woman of faith and a true fighter. In later years, she had overcome many health issues and always battled through with strength, positivity, and grace.

We will miss her beyond words and cherish our memories that live on in our hearts.

She is survived by her two children, daughter Kimberly Knihnisky (John), son Jeff (JoElle), and three beautiful grandchildren, Katelyn, Ashlyn, and Alexander (Jamie) who she adored and was so proud of!

A service in Millie’s memory will be held at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85018, on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. 

Millie was an avid animal lover. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Millie’s name to the Arizona Animal Welfare League. 

The family will hold a private burial in the spring in Johnson City, Tennessee, where Millie will be laid to rest with her father and mother. 

Rest in peace. Love you, Mom.