William Nelson Butts II , known to friends and family as Nelson, 60, of Cottageville, WV passed away on May 15, 2025, at home.

He was born, December 20, 1964 in Charleston, WV, the son of William Nelson Butts and Wanda Hartley Butts. He was preceded in death by father; infant sister, Cynthia; and father and mother-in-law, Sinnette and Rosie Summers. He married Linda Summers Butts on December 27, 1984, and had 2 children, Courtney and Donovan.

Nelson was employed by Worley for 28 years, where he had advanced from a CAD draftsman to Senior Principal Instrumentation and Control Engineer. His strong work ethic, intelligence, and integrity earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues. He took great pride in providing for those he loved and approached his work with a sense of purpose and diligence that defined his character.
A true outdoorsman, Nelson found joy in nature and in the work of his hands. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, patriot, and passionate about building and shooting firearms. He took great satisfaction in tending his garden and canning. Many enjoyed his homemade breads, salsa, hot sauce, and Spanish rice.

In his younger years, he played guitar and shared his love of music (especially Pink Floyd) with his family, creating memories that would last a lifetime. In school, he excelled in the sciences and was a member of the Hi-Q team. More recently, he channeled his engineering mindset into the world of 3D printing, crafting inventive projects that showcased both his skill and creativity.

Known for his dry wit and perfectly timed sense of humor—his quiet, often unexpected remarks brought smiles and laughter to those around him. He was generous with his time and talents, using his vast knowledge lending a hand to anyone in need.

Among all his roles, being a Papaw brought moments where his love, warmth, and playful spirit were most vividly expressed. He treasured time spent with his two grandchildren with side-by-side rides, making homemade biscuits when they visited, playing go fish, as well as designing and crafting them one-of-a-kind toys.

Nelson was a devoted and hardworking man whose life was marked by quiet strength, unwavering commitment, and a deep love for his family. Although he left us too soon, he passed with spiritual peace, finding rest in the promise of his heavenly home, surrounded by his loved ones. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those he cherished.

Nelson will be remembered by his wife of 40 years, Linda Summers Butts; daughter, Courtney Friend (John), son, Donovan Butts; granddaughter, Alexa Friend; grandson, Noah Friend; mother, Wanda Hartley Butts; sisters, Katherine Denise Peters and Susan Vanessa Brown (Tim); nephews, Tristan Brown and Kaleb Derek Martin; and other extended family and special siblings through marriage.

In keeping with his wishes, no services will be held. Instead, trees will be planted on the family farm in his memory. He will be remembered for his steady presence, generous heart, and rock-solid support for us all. In the words of Pink Floyd, "Wish you were here."