Margaret Inez Edwards Butler, age 72, of Rocky Point passed peacefully to her Heavenly home on Thursday, January 8, 2009 while surrounded by her loving, caring family.

She was born September 13, 1936 in Wilmington and was the daughter of the late Warren Edwards and Ruth Simmons Edwards Harker.

Surviving are her devoted husband of fifty-six years, Maurice Butler; children, Kay Bowden (Roger), Nancy Yopp (George), Ronald Butler (Becky) all of Rocky Point and David Butler of Southport; grandchildren, Allen Bowden (Caryn), Dean Walker (Angela), Daniel Bowden (Mary Beth), Chris Butler, Kenny Butler (Robin), Tony Butler (Tina), Christian Butler, Kyle Miller and Baylon Miller; fourteen great grandchildren; sisters, Mary Tartt of Okeechobee, Florida, Doris Long of Wilmington, Ellen Futrell of Okeechobee, Florida and Jackie Ward of Wilson; brothers, Thomas Edwards of Cooly Dam, Washington and George Edwards of Wilmington; and many nieces and nephews.

Margaret was a devoted wife and loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. She was the cornerstone of her family; always giving, guiding and loving unconditionally. Margaret loved family gatherings and has instilled the importance of family in her children and grandchildren. The Christian life she lived exemplified her love for God and her fellowman. Margaret's life was devoted to uplifting and caring for others and she leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness.

Funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 11, 2009 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel with The Rev. Ray Faircloth and The Rev. Dean Walker officiating.

Burial will be in Seagate Cemetery in Wilmington.

Casketbearers will be grandsons of Margaret Butler.

The family will receive friends 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Saturday at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and at other times will be at the home of Nancy and George Yopp.

Condolences may be sent to www.quinnmcgowen.com

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Burgaw, NC.