Obituary of Stella A. Butler

BUTLER, STELLA A. Age 88 of Big Flats, NY passed away unexpectedly on Friday October 28, 2016. Stella was born June 15, 1928 in Endicott, NY the daughter of the late Trofim and Victoria Stremecka Polyniak. She was a high school graduate of Candor Central School in 1946 and received her Bachelor's Degree in Biology from Hartwick College in Oneonta, NY in 1951. Stella married her loving and devoted husband, Charles H.S. Butler, on June 23, 1951. They recently celebrated their 65th Wedding Anniversary. Stella worked at various jobs over the years; including serving as a civil servant secretary in the military, as an aide at Sing Sing Road Elementary School and as a lab assistant at Elmira College. She and Charlie enjoyed singing and dancing and were members of the "Relaxed Squares" (a square dancing group). She tried her hand at writing children's books and had a style all her own. Stella also gave piano lessons and ran a pre-school out of her home, as well as volunteering as an assistant Girl Scout Leader. Coming from a sheltered farm life, she overcame her fear of flying and eventually travelled to Puerto Rico, Europe and Australia. Stella was known for her honesty, generosity and thoughtfulness. She was loving and caring to all, but the most important to her was family. She always made time for her husband, children and grandchildren and was an inspiration to us. With just a look, you knew exactly what she was thinking. We will all miss her beautiful smile, sense of humor and the twinkle in her eye. In addition to her parents, Stella was pre-deceased by her sisters Julia and Helen. Stella is survived by her husband Charlie; son and daughter-in-law Dan & Madeline Butler of Laurel, MD; daughters and sons-in-law: Vicki & Phil Miles of Millbury, MA and Erin & David Boedecker of Middletown, MD; grandchildren: Clarissa L. Butler, Brenda M. & Justin Ross, Victoria H. (Tory) Miles and Benjamin F. Miles III; three nieces and extended family members. The family wishes to give thanks to her compassionate caregivers, especially Carol; and their helpful neighbors, especially their friend Priscilla, for all she has done for the family. Relatives and friends are invited to call at the LYNCH FUNERAL HOME 318 WEST BROAD STREET HORSEHEADS, NY on Wednesday November 2, 2016 from 4-6 PM. Funeral Services will be held at the conclusion of calling hours with Pastor Mike Dickinson officiating. Gravesite Committal Services will be held on Thursday November 3, 2016 at 10:30 AM at Maple Grove Cemetery in Candor, NY with the Rev. Phil Jordan officiating.