Charlotte Ruth Butler, 76, passed away Wednesday, September 23, 2015. She was born in Denver, Colorado on October 9, 1938 to the late Orville and Lena Dunbar. In addition to her parents, Charlotte is preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, LTC James Alan Butler (USAF Ret.). She is survived by her sons Ronald Butler and his wife Lynn, and David Butler and his wife Debbie of Hampton; daughters, Allison Nelson and her husband John of Yorktown, and Karen Butler of Shallotte, NC; and her special canine companion Missy. Charlotte was a dedicated Air Force wife, spending her early married life immersing herself in volunteer work and raising her children on bases in Texas, Mississippi, New Hampshire, Kansas and Virginia. She graduated from Old Dominion University with a Bachelor's of Science degree in Dental Hygiene and worked for Dr. John L. Tarver. Her lifelong love and talent for sewing and needlework led her to open the Ghent Needlecrafter where she taught classes and created custom christening gowns and children's clothing. An article, "A Sew-lute to the Troops," captured on location at Ft. Monroe, was featured on the cover of "Sew Beautiful" magazine, in the Summer of 1991. Charlotte's most important job was taking care of her family. She created a home filled with joy, laughter, food and wonderful memories. Her house was always the gathering place. In her spare time she was a master gardener and active in the garden club. She always enjoyed her monthly bridge club and lunches with the ladies. She worked at Becky's Hallmark where she knew all the customers by name. The family wishes expressions of sympathy to take the form of contributions to the Animal Aide Society, 80 Butler Farm Rd., Hampton, VA 23666. The family will receive friends from 5-7:00 PM Monday at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home, 245 S. Armistead Ave in Hampton, 757-723-3191. Inurnment will be with her husband in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.