Eugene Herman Mueller III

Eugene Herman Mueller III, familiarly known as Butch throughout his youth, age 77, of Dallas, Texas, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2025. He was born on November 6, 1947, in Little Rock, Arkansas, and from an early age, his life was filled with music, creativity, and a free spirit that touched everyone around him.

Eugene was a gifted musician who found joy in the tenor saxophone, piano, and flute. Jazz and blues were his greatest loves, and his music carried the rhythm of his gentle soul. In his teenage years, he proudly marched with his high school band at the 1964 World’s Fair, a memory he cherished for a lifetime.

Growing up in a military family, Eugene had lived in five different states by the time he became a teenager, and his lasting friendships from childhood mapped across the country. He settled in Florida after graduating in 1965 from Choctawhatchee High School in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida. Afterward, in college classrooms and jazz ensembles, he began to hone his skills there in Florida as a talented artist and carpenter, reflecting his growing, versatile expertise.

Butch had a remarkable talent for restoring and creating. Over the years, he restored boats, homes, and restaurants and built furniture with his own hands—each piece reflecting his dedication to quality and artistry. After moving to Texas in 1991, Eugene settled in Dallas, where his craftsmanship found its way into unexpected places, including sets he built for the beloved children’s show Barney.

Eugene’s life was defined by curiosity, loyalty, and kindness. He was a free spirit who could talk to anyone about anything, and his wide-ranging knowledge made conversations with him unforgettable. He had a gentle voice and a compassionate heart, always ready to support and encourage others. Eugene was especially devoted to his mother, offering steady love and support through the years after the loss of his father.

To his friends, Eugene was steadfast and loyal. To his family, he was a source of warmth and care. He loved gathering for Thanksgiving, sharing stories, laughter, and the bonds of family. A lover of seafood and simple pleasures, Eugene enjoyed life fully and authentically.

Eugene was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene H. Mueller Jr. and Margaret Red Mueller. He is survived by his sisters, Lisa Mueller Weihmuller and husband Lance, and Kelly Smith Hines and husband Robert; his son, Erik Donaldson; and grandson, Desmond Hooper. He is also survived by his nephews, Lance W. Weihmuller II, Amon E. Weihmuller, and Jonah P. Smith; niece, Margaret L. Smith; and numerous cousins. Extended family includes Jon Paul and Kim Smith, and Jim Garrett.

His life was a tapestry of music, craftsmanship, and love—woven together with humility, creativity, and compassion. He will be remembered not only for the beautiful things he built and the music he made but also for the kindness he shared so freely.

Graveside services are pending.