Josephine Statia Butler

MADISON - Josephine Statia ”Jo” Butler, age 92, of Madison, passed away on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at UW Health East Madison Hospital. She was born on January 8, 1933, in Pittsfield, Mass., the daughter of Anthony and Mary (Orchel) Stankiewicz.

Jo graduated from Pittsfield High School and then worked at Berkshire Insurance Company as head clerk in accounting. In 1954, she married Hawley LaVerne Butler and together they moved to Madison, Hawley’s hometown. She stayed home with her children as they were growing up and then enjoyed working at WPS for 10 years after they were grown.

For many years, Jo volunteered at EMMCA (East Madison Monona Coalition of the Aging), now New Bridge, coordinating the foot clinic and participating in activities, working at the front desk answering phones, preparing file folders for the case managers, and helping with filing and organizing the daily tasks. Her help and dedication were truly appreciated by EMMCA staff, receiving numerous awards of recognition. She also volunteered at the Pinney Branch Library and was a charter member of St. Dennis Catholic Church. In her free time in recent years, she enjoyed reading, walking, movies, doing yardwork and dining out with family and friends.

Josephine is survived by her son, Mark Butler; daughters, Sue (Eric) Tenjum and Holly (Henry) Busch; four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Hawley; one sister; and four brothers.

Private family services will be held.

Jo loved and was loved by many and will be deeply missed.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420