Handsel Blanks Butts, age 94, passed away peacefully at his home in Gulf Breeze, FL on March 1, 2025. He was born to the late Lucius M. Butts, Sr. and Russe Blanks Butts on April 8, 1930, in Natchez, MS.

Handsel attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and graduated from Louisiana State University with a degree in Commerce. He joined the US Navy in 1952 and was awarded his official designation as a Naval Aviator, earning his wings in 1954. He attained the rank of Lieutenant Commander, flying A-4's off the aircraft carrier.

Handsel married Judy Morrison on December 28, 1955, and they were married until her death in 1985. After he left the Navy, he began a successful career as a Home Builder, building homes in Cordova Park and many other neighborhoods in Pensacola and Gulf Breeze. He was dedicated to serving his community having served as a past president of the Downtown Rotary Club where he was the longest standing member, joining in 1963. He was also active in Fiesta Pensacola and Revellers of Ariola.

Handsel continued to pursue his love of aviation with his son, Edward, also a pilot, spending many weekends flying the family to Natchez to spend time with our relatives. Later in life, he discovered a love for snow skiing and looked forward to his many trips with the Pensacola Ski Club.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Judith Morrison Butts; his son, Edward Scott Butts; his brother, Lucius M. Butts, Jr.

Those left to cherish his memory include, his two daughters, Katharine Whitehead, (Michael) and Evelyn Reid (Gary); his son, John Butts; grandchildren, Christopher Whitehead (Fiancée Callie), Handsel Reid, and Virginia "Ginny" Kelly (Kevin); and nephews, Lucius Butts, III (Penny), and Russell Butts (Stephanie).

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Quintin Law, Peoples Hospice, and to the caring, dedicated caregivers at Home Instead, and many thanks to special friends, Camille and Don, Rita, and Jackie Andrews.

Visitation will be held from 12:00pm until a Funeral Service begins at 1:00pm Thursday, March 6, 2025, at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel, with Fr. Walt Kindergan officiating. A committal service will follow at Bayview Memorial Park, with military honors being accorded by the US Navy.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Rotary Club of Pensacola Foundation, P.O. Box 528, Pensacola, FL 32591, or a charity of your choice.