Eleanor Jean "Ellie" (Hardin) Butler, 75, of Loveland, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, August 28, 2026, surrounded by family. Born on April 30, 1951, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to John and Norma Jean Hardin, Ellie lived life on her own terms. She was strong-willed, fiercely independent, and never one to keep her opinions to herself. Those who knew her best understood that beneath that outspoken nature was a woman whose love for her family ran deep and whose heart was always bigger than she let on. Ellie graduated from Indian Hill High School in 1969 and spent much of her career serving the families of Cincinnati. As a bus driver for Riggs Bus Service and later as a Transportation Specialist for Cincinnati Public Schools, she took pride in helping children get safely where they needed to be and in creating transportation routes that kept the community moving. Above all else, Ellie loved her family. She cherished time spent with her children, grandchildren, extended family, and the many friends she gathered throughout her life. She had the joy of raising Lisa and Bruce and welcoming her daughter Tonya back into her life in 1999 when her mother received a call from a mediator and Norma Jean said, “Is that baby looking for us?”. Ellie was known for her unforgettable expressions, her exclamations of "Wow!", and her ability to make people laugh, even when they least expected it. Her home was always shared with the dogs she adored. They often ruled the household, and while they frequently tested her patience, everyone knew her affectionate scolding was just another way she showed her love. Ellie also found joy in simple pleasures: caring for her beautiful hostas, tending to her yard, and enjoying sitting on the front porch or under the carport with family. She loved trips to the beach and could never resist a ride in one of Bruce's convertibles, throwing her hands in the air and letting the wind blow through her hair as if she were riding the biggest roller coaster at the amusement park. Knowing Bruce's driving, some might say she wasn't far off. Family was both Ellie's greatest source of pride and, at times, her deepest heartbreak. Earlier this year, she experienced the unimaginable loss of her daughter, Lisa. Yet even during difficult times, she was surrounded by the love of those who cared for her. In her final months, her nieces, Teresa Rich and Heather Jordan (and their families), became her steadfast companions and caregivers. They cared for her as lovingly as they would their own mother, accompanying her to appointments, helping around the house, and ensuring she never felt alone. More than anything, they gave her friendship, laughter, and unwavering support, gifts for which her son and daughter-in-law will always be grateful. Ellie leaves behind a family who will miss her dearly, including her son, Bruce (Heather) Butler; daughter, Tonya (Tony) Wilson; sisters, Penny Angel and Mary Penny; brother, John Hardin, Jr.; her beloved grandchildren, Bianca (Tony) Wagoner, Bronté Butler, Duncan Boyd, and Connor (Morgan) Wilson; her great-grandchildren, Henry Gravely, Wyatt Gravely, and Emory Wilson; countless nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews; and her cherished canine companions, Pugsley and Peanut, who undoubtedly held a very special place in her heart. She was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Butler, Jr.; her partner, Arthur "Hap" Freimuth; her daughter, Lisa Gayle Fogle; her parents, John and Norma Jean Hardin; and her granddaughter, Marissa Rae Lee Diliberto.  Ellie's family takes comfort in knowing she is reunited with those she loved and that her strong spirit, unmistakable voice, and generous heart will live on in the stories, laughter, and memories shared by all who knew her.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Ellie's life on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at her home, 2429 Hibiscus Drive, Loveland, Ohio 45140.In true Ellie fashion, come prepared to share stories, laughter, and maybe even a "Wow!" in her honor.

We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Francis Reed family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post." 

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the Francis Reed family during this difficult time. Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.