Helen (Butch) Gainey Coates

It is with sad hearts that we announce the passing of Helen (Butch) Gainey Coates, age 81. Butch passed away December 17 while at the Medford Nursing Center, Darlington.

 Funeral services will be held Friday at 2:00 at the Chapel Norton Funeral Home. Rev. Danny Holley will officiate. Burial will be in the Bethlehem Cemetery, directed by Norton Funeral Home. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

 Butch was born in Hartsville a daughter of the late Lester Gainey and Gladys Hawkins Gainey. She was a graduate of Hartsville High School. In her earlier years, Butch worked at Roses Discount Store and TG&Y. Then, she worked at Sonoco. When she retired, she began to do woodworking. Butch built furniture such as hutches, buffet tables, cabinets and much more. Many of her pieces can still be found in homes in Hartsville and the surrounding areas. In her spare time, Butch would go to thrift stores and yard sales, but she didn’t just go looking for a bargain. She loved seeing and talking to people. Next to reading, talking was her favorite pastime. After her health declined, Butch moved to Medford in Darlington. The staff there took great care of her and showed her much love which the family greatly appreciates.

 Surviving are three sons, Brian (Wendy) Kelly, Hartsville, Brad Kelly, Hartsville and John (Lori) Coates, Gastonia, NC; one daughter Alice (Mitch) Watford, Lamar; one brother Charles (Emily) Gainey, Gowensville; 11 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. She was proceeded in death by her husband, John Coates; a son, Barry Kelly and a brother, Jimmy Gainey.

 Pall Bearers: Corey Kelly, Chassidy Johnson, Lance Johnson, Alston Funderburk, Cameron Funderburk, Holden Tolson, Taylor Tolson

"A Life So Beautifully Lived, Should Be Beautifully Remembered."

Norton Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Coates family.