Cary Bennett Butler

Some people spend their lives dreaming of adventure. Cary spent his living it.

Born on September 9, 1950, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, Cary passed away on July 31, 2026, at the age of 75, leaving behind a lifetime of adventures, unforgettable stories, and a family who loved him beyond words.

Cary lived life on his own terms. He believed life was meant to be experienced, and he made sure to do just that. The mountains became his forever home, but the ocean called to him. He spent years living in the Virgin Islands, living aboard a sailboat in the Bahamas, and traveled internationally. He loved spear fishing, scuba diving, and was known for barefoot water skiing on the lake. Whether he was on horseback, skiing down a mountain or across the lake, or enjoying a good round of golf, Cary found joy in the freedom of the life he created.

An electrician by trade and a horse trainer by passion, Cary spent his life doing what he loved. He dedicated many years to training Tennessee Walking Horses and firmly believed the Arabian–Tennessee Walking Horse cross was the perfect combination of endurance, intelligence, and one of the smoothest rides imaginable. Horses weren’t just part of his life—they were part of who he was.

For almost 20 years, the barn and property he called home became the center of his world. It was where horses were trained, family gathered, friendships grew, and countless memories were made.

If you ever met Cary, chances are you walked away knowing more than a few new stories. He never met a stranger and loved talking with anyone willing to listen. He could turn a five-minute conversation into an hour, usually filled with stories, laughter, and just enough mischievous commentary to keep everyone smiling. He had a quick wit, loved cracking jokes, and had a way of lightening even the hardest moments. He was famously stubborn, convinced he usually knew the best way to do just about anything, and those who loved him wouldn’t have had him any other way.

Many who knew Cary joked that he was one of the luckiest men alive. Whether it was by chance, determination, or simply the way he embraced life, he always seemed to find another adventure waiting around the corner.

More than anything, Cary loved his family. His grandson affectionately knew him as “Horsey Grandpa,” a name that fit him perfectly. He was always there with a helping hand, a funny story, or a reminder that life is too short to hold onto the little things.

Cary found comfort in his faith and accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Charlotte Asleson Butler; his father, Cecil Roberson Butler; and his beloved sister, Cathy Butler Kosterman.

He is survived by his daughter, Amber Butler, her spouse, Wayne Equils, and his beloved grandson, Robby Equils.

He is also survived by his daughter, Ericka Butler Zumwalt, and her husband, Billy Zumwalt; their daughters, Samantha Beechler and her husband, AJ Beechler, Natalie Zumwalt, and Emily Zumwalt. Before his passing, Cary was overjoyed to know he had become a great-grandfather with the birth of his first great-grandson, Ranger Beechler.

He is also survived by his nephew, Cory Harrison, his wife, Corie Harrison, and their son, Coen Harrison, along with many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were richer because of knowing him.

Cary’s family would also like to express their deepest gratitude to those who helped make his final months and last wishes possible. From neighbors to clients, and every friend in between, he was truly blessed with the best village.

A special thank you to Anna Dudley, whose love and dedication to Carys horses over the past 12 years allowed them to continue receiving the care they deserved when he was no longer physically able to do it himself. The family is also forever grateful to Aileen and Jonathan, whose compassion and devoted care made it possible for Cary to spend his final days peacefully at home, just as he wished. Their kindness and selflessness will never be forgotten.

To the many riders who spent countless hours with Cary and his horses on heavenly mountain, at the endurance races, and hanging out after a successful lesson in the ring—thank you for being part of the life he loved so much. He treasured every mile and memory with you all.

If you knew Cary, you know he never left a story unfinished. His life will be celebrated not with sadness, but with horses, stories, laughter, good food, good music, and time spent together at the place he loved most. Those who attend are invited to come ready to share memories, tell stories, and celebrate a man who truly lived life to the fullest.

If Cary could leave us with one last reminder, it would simply be:

Life is short...

Ride 'em like you stole 'em.