Eugene Clifton Rhoton Jr.

Eugene "Butch" Clifton Rhoton Jr., 78, of Gray, TN, passed away on Friday, May 8, 2026. Born at Bolling Air Force Base in Washington, D.C., Butch spent his early years in the surrounding area before his family later settled in Duffield, VA.

A proud American, Butch answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army in 1966. He served with the 101st Airborne Division and the 82nd Airborne Division, including a year of service in Vietnam during the war. For his bravery and sacrifice, he was awarded the Purple Heart. For years, he questioned why he survived when so many others did not, but believed his Guardian Angel pulled him thru. Known to his Military Family as Gene and nicknamed " Short Round", he formed bonds that lasted throughout his life. AIRBORNE!!!

Following his military service, he spent the first few years in various jobs including construction, welding, truck driving, restaurant management, and computer programming. After spending time working for someone else, he was determined he needed to be his own boss. In 1979, Butch and Evelyn purchased Shannon View Grocery from his parents and operated the Mom and Pop's business for over 30 years.

Butch found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved fishing, hunting, gardening, and spending time with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed their laughter and loved when the kids were being kids. Known for his sense of humor, he could always find laughter in the simplest moments. Above all, he was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is preceded by his parents, Eugene Sr. & Helen Crary Rhoton.

Those left to cherish Butch's memory are his wife of 55 years, Evelyn; his daughters, Heather Woods and husband, Kenny of Jonesborough, TN, and Kim Browder and husband, Alan of Jonesborough, TN; his grandchildren, Hannah & Will Woods, and Christopher Browder; his brothers, Frank Rhoton of Duffield, VA & Tom Rhoton of Orange, VA; his sister, Marcy Famiano of Duffield, VA; his nephews, Steve Famiano and Brian Famiano; his niece, Tammy Stotler; and his special family members, Bruce Ecker & Ron Qualls.

A Memorial Service will be held at Mountain Home National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Wounded Warriors, Shriners, or St. Jude's.

The family sends a special Thank You to Hospice and Visiting Angels, the staff at the VA, and the Community Living Center.

Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (423-723-8177) is honored to serve the family, online condolences can be shared with the family on our website at www.trinitymemorialcenters.com