Francis "Butch" Eugene Buchholz, Jr., age 72, of Hannibal, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Moberly Regional Medical Center in Moberly, Missouri.

Francis' family will host a celebration of his life at a later date.

Cremation arrangements are being handled by the Smith Funeral Home & Chapel of Hannibal.

Francis was born on October 12, 1953, in Pittsfield, Illinois, the son of Francis Eugene Buchholz, Sr. and Edith Loriane (Rabe) Buchholz.

He is survived by his children, Alexander "Alex" Rose (Amanda) of Quincy, Illinois, Cassie Davis (Boyd) of Hannibal, Missouri, Patricia Keller (Ben) of Mendon, Illinois, Jonnie Lain (Billy) of Hannibal, Missouri, and Sarah Rose (Korey Brennan) of Peculiar, Missouri; his sisters, Kandy Huffer (Stephen Bundy) of Warner Robins, Georgia, and Akelajo Connell (Don) of Centerville, Georgia; his beloved grandchildren, Courtney, Gail, Jeffrey, Jenna, Justin, John, Evan, Alexys, Malinda, Becky, Alyssa, Carolynn, Gloria, Gillyan, Tailor, Peyton, Clayton, Zaine, Logan, Caleb, Connor, Sophia, Kole, and Khloe; fifteen great-grandchildren; one niece; three nephews; three great-nieces and great-nephews; and one great-niece or great-nephew expected to join the family.

In addition to his parents, Butch was preceded in death by his beloved companion of thirty years, Carolyn Sue Alexander, on June 9, 2020.

Butch graduated from Pittsfield High School with the Class of 1971. He devoted more than forty-one years to the entertainment industry, working with Main Carnival Archway, now known as Sonshine Carnival. Throughout his career, he enjoyed bringing smiles and lasting memories to countless families.

Following his retirement, Butch found great peace in life's simple pleasures. He enjoyed taking leisurely drives across the river to East Hannibal, where he could sit for hours watching the water flow by while reflecting on life. Crossword puzzles and word searches became favorite daily pastimes that challenged his mind and provided quiet moments of enjoyment.

Above all else, Butch cherished his family. Whether traveling to Georgia to spend time with his sisters or gathering with his children and grandchildren for holidays and special occasions, the moments he shared with those he loved most were the greatest blessings of his life. He will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his quiet appreciation of life's simple moments, and the deep love he had for his family.

Online condolences may be made to the family on Butch's memorial page at www.smithfuneralhomeandchapel.com.