Condolence: I am sorry to hear of Butch’s passing. Butch and I served on the North Carolina Environmental Management Commission together from 2011 to 2013, a very eventful time marked by the Republican legislature firing all of us and then immediately reappointing a few of us, Butch and me included. In what often was a political circus, Butch was a consistent voice of reason that we all relied on. I treasured working with him and having him as a friend. He will be missed by all that knew him, including me.

Condolence: could not be there for that sad day but want to send you my sincere condolences DId not know butch for a long time but he was just a great friendly welcoming man thinking of you all today

Condolence: To say I will miss Butch is a great understatement. We met and became friends 43 short years ago. Butch was a founding member of a group of friends that hunted, fished & camped together over the decades. We humorously called ourselves "The Junior Woodchucks". Having had Butch for a friend was was a memorable and valued part of my life that will always bring smiles & laughs when recalled. I don't expect to meet anyone like him again on this side of heaven.

Condolence: Please accept my condolences for the passing of Butch. I got to know Butch while we attended ASU. Butch taught me much about how to enjoy life and I will ever be in debt. He was a great friend. I look forward to seeing him again in Glory!

Condolence: I met Butch shortly after I moved to Forest City In the summer of 1968 from Charlotte, NC where I lived for 8 years. As my father was a Rutherford County Native, we moved back to the County and I met Butch and we used to play some very "SERIOUS COW PASTURE FOOTBALL" on Sunday's in front of his home at Piney Ridge Road. He was one of the Best I have ever encountered at playing that sport! Why he didn't take it to the next level, amazes me! I haven't had contact with Butch since High School, but, I will always remember him as One Fun, Wonderful, Friend that I can remember in MY LIFE! After reading his obituary, it does not surprise me that he turned out to be the Successful Man that he was! I just wish I had been around to see him during these times! He's Special In My Heart And I will Never Forget God Bless You, The Smith Family, From The Deepest Part Of My Heart! I'm Sure He Is Doing Fine Today! Thank YOU Jesus Christ!

Condolence: I first met Butch at Oakland School in the fall of 1959 when he and I started in the first grade. Oakland was a small school with each grade having only one classroom. We had only nine boys in our class which led to us being very good friends. Butch was liked by everyone and Butch liked everyone. I cannot remember Butch ever mentioning that his Dad was our principle. Butch was always the best athlete in our class and also a good student. I lost track of Butch when he went with his Dad to Cool Springs in about 5th grade.

Condolence: John and I both are saddened to hear about Butch. John loved him to death, he and "John John" had a lot of good times together at "the property". Family life kept them from visiting a lot the passed few years. Our thoughts, prayers, and love go to the family. Linda, Trae, Brian and Jess. Hugs to all of you.

Condolence: Our thoughts and prayers are with you. My daughter worked with him and he was a very good man to work for. He will be missed.

Condolence: Sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in knowing that your dear one is safe in the memory of God, who will remember every detail about him and bring him back again. John 5:28, 29 gives this assurance.

Condolence: My thoughts and prayers, for Linda Smith and family. Butch was like a brother to me. We had a lot of laughs at the river. Thanks for the memories

Condolence: Butch was the man I will always look up too for his honesty and drive. Serving as the Manager of Cleveland County Water of which I have been fortunate to servewith him as a Commissioner for the past 12 years. We could always depend on Butch to take us to a level they had never been before. His employees were always kept abreast of anything that would occur with the water board. There was not a year he did not put himself in front and always stood behind the decisions they made. Butch took great pride it bringing the Cleveland County Sanitary District to the front; both financially and service wide. Such a great man and I will always remember his honesty and drive he showed for the people of Cleveland County. God Bless his lovely wife Linda and his family. Their loss is mine as well. God Speed Pete

Condolence: My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Butch was a great friend. He will be sorely missed.

Condolence: So sorry to hear of Butch’s passing. When I remember him I see a “cut up” and remember Mrs. Morris making him sit in the trash can in front of the classroom, I think he was delighted just to have everyone’s attention. That was probably the 8th grade.