Thomas E. Button

Tom Button lived on this earth from June 7, 1938 to August 30, 2021, at which time he ran into the arms of his loving Savior. He was born in Frederic, Wisconsin to Devere and Lillian Button. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Bonnie Paylo, and his son, Sherman.

Tom is survived by the love of his life, Bettie Button; his sister, Lois (Bob) Lockwood of (Lumberton, TX); his brother, Clair (Ellen) Button of (McKinney, TX); daughter-in-love Michelle Button (Humble, TX); and granddaughter Sabrina. He is also survived by nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.

Tom graduated from the University of Wyoming in 1962; and served his country from 1963-1965 in the U.S. Army. In 1965, Tom found his way to Oklahoma City where he met and fell in love with Bettie Barrick. They married on March 25, 1967. Together Tom and Bettie had one son, Sherman Button.

Tom retired after 30 years working for the U.S. Dept. of Labor in the Wage and Hour division. Tom was a kind, gentle soul who loved God, Bettie, his family and church family, and all sports, especially OU football and basketball. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed mountain climbing in his college days.

Tom would converse intelligently with a young child just as easily as with his peers; he had a lot to share and didn’t mind sharing it. Tom also willingly shared smiles, bear hugs, and gentle, thoughtful, compassionate advice.

To some folks, Tom was “grandpa”, to others an uncle, a brother, and always a friend. He liked to engage in conversation over a good cup of coffee or a good meal with friends. Tom enjoyed taking a walk with Gabe at the dog park, taking a leisurely drive to see the colorful “soda pop”, or to see the beautiful colors and foliage of the Red Rock Canyon. He and Bettie visited several countries and traveled many miles together visiting relatives and renewing acquaintance with scenes of his past.

A visit to Tom and Bettie’s home might find Tom in his recliner beside his Sweetheart, with feet propped up on the footstool, a light throw over his legs, and his buddy Gabe lazily stretched out in his lap watching an OU game. He loved all sports and spoke intelligently about the individual players and the teams – both men and women.

Tom Button was a friend to all who knew him and will be greatly missed.

Visitation will be from 6 – 8pm on Thursday, September 2 at Bill Eisenhour Funeral Home, 5005 SE 29th St., Del City, OK 73115. A memorial service is scheduled for 10am Friday, September 3 at Crossroads Church, 8901 S. Shields Blvd., OKC, OK 73149.