Lewis "Butch" M. Eldridge

Lewis Martin “Butch” Eldridge, 78, of Era, Texas, passed away suddenly on October 9, 2026, alongside his beloved granddaughter, Caitlyn Eldridge.

Born in Fort Worth, Texas, to Lewis Martin and Ruth Dillon Eldridge, Butch grew up in Forestburg and graduated from Forestburg High School in 1966. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, earning the Army Commendation Medal with valor for heroism in combat.

On June 5, 1970, Butch married Mary Edith Yetter. Together, they built a life centered on family, hard work and the Era community.

A talented mechanic and lifelong entrepreneur, Butch worked for General Dynamics and National Supply and operated a fencing business. He was also a dedicated member of the Masonic fraternity, achieving the 32nd Degree and serving in leadership roles within the Grand Lodge of Texas.

Butch was known throughout the community for his generosity, sense of humor and willingness to help others.

He was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter, Caitlyn Eldridge; brother-in-law, Kent Dill; daughter-in-law Marissa D’An (Kemp) Eldridge; and nephew, Mark Stevens.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Edith Eldridge; son, Martin “Marty” Wesley Eldridge; sisters, Sharon Dill and Linda Stevens; grandson, Ryan Eldridge and his wife Macy; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held Saturday, October 17, from noon to 1 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Gainesville, with funeral services following at 1 p.m. Burial will follow at Perryman Cemetery in Forestburg.

Memorial donations may be made to the Era Masonic Lodge.