Mary Catherine Butler, 76, of Newport News, Virginia, passed away on Monday, September 7, 2026, and was welcomed into her eternal home with the Lord.

Catherine was born in Greenville, North Carolina, to the late Cliffie Ipock and Esther M. Gilbert. She made her home in Newport News, where she built a life centered on faith and family.

A woman of great faith, Catherine was a devoted member of Menchville Baptist Church, where she attended for the past 25 years. Her love for the Lord was an important part of who she was and a source of strength throughout her life. Her family is especially grateful for Pastor Jim Weston, whose friendship, spiritual guidance, and faithful support meant so much to Catherine.

One of Catherine's greatest joys was being a grandmother. She truly loved being Ma-My to Austin and Jacob, cherished the time she spent with them, and took great joy in watching them grow. Her love for her grandsons was immeasurable, and the memories they shared will remain a treasured part of her legacy.

Catherine was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 48 years, Barney Butler; her parents, Cliffie Ipock and Esther M. Gilbert; and her sisters, Vivian Ipock and Diane Strimaitis.

She leaves behind her sons, Barney L. Butler and Daniel Butler; her daughter-in-law, Heather Butler; her grandsons, Austin Butler and Jacob Butler; her three brothers, William (Bill) Ipock and his wife, Nina; Dennis Ipock and his wife, Peggy; and Ennis C. Gilbert III and his wife, Teri; as well as a host of nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind special family friends, Charlie and Rochelle Bartlett and Joe and Brenda Williams, whose friendship held a special place in Catherine's life.

In the last few years of her life, Catherine was lovingly cared for by her son, Daniel, who remained by her side and helped care for her.

Catherine's presence will be deeply missed, but her family finds comfort in knowing that she is now at peace in the presence of her Lord and Savior. After a life grounded in faith, she has been welcomed home to Heaven and reunited with her beloved Barney and those who went before her. Her family holds firmly to the promise that this goodbye is not forever and that one day they will see her again.

in lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Menchville Baptist Church in her memory.

"But seek ye first the

kingdom of God, and

his righteousness; and

all these things shall be added unto you."

Matthew 6:33