William "Butch" Richard Hutchinson, Jr.

W. R. Hutchinson, Jr. (Butch) passed away peacefully July 16, 2025 at the age of 83, surrounded by family and friends. Born August 3, 1941 in Alexandria, Louisiana, Butch was the son of William and Bertie (McBride) Hutchinson. He was a graduate of Pineville High School and Louisiana College. In 1963 he became the devoted husband of Peggy Jean Moore. Butch and his family became residents of Central in 1977. Butch built a successful career in medical laboratory equipment sales, working with Scientific Products, Baxter and Info-Lab. After retiring, he gave generously of his time preparing tax returns through AARP and enjoyed working at the election polls. Known for his dry wit and sincere love for people, Butch was happiest when connecting with others and bringing smiles to their faces. Butch was a faithful member of Zoar Baptist Church for more than four decades, serving as an usher and a deacon. An avid outdoorsman and a champion trap shooter, Butch also found joy in gardening and cooking. He loved preparing meals for family and friends using fresh vegetables from his bountiful garden. Above all, his most meaningful accomplishment was the steadfast care he provided Peggy throughout her lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Butch is survived by his three children, Karla (Davey) Hebert, William (Billy) Hutchinson III and Nancy (Karl) Whetstine; grandchildren, Anna (Ben) Saucier, Daniel (Jana) Hebert, Jaylin Ammons, Jacob (Brittany) Ammons, Liana (Cody) Perry and Merris Whetstine; great-grandchildren, Reed, Luke, Maverick, Rory, Jayden, Jase, Robby, Wesley and Dante.

He was preceded in death by parents, William and Bertie Hutchinson; loving wife, Peggy Moore Hutchinson; sister, JoAnn Chapman and great-grandson, Haiden Tanner.

A celebration of Butch’s life will be held Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at Zoar Baptist Church, 11848 Hooper Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70818. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. and burial.

The family extends heartfelt appreciation to dear friend, Vickie Rabb, for the companionship and love she shared with Butch over the last several years.

Many thanks to the ICU nurses of OLOL for the compassionate care provided to Butch during his final days.