Erma Guice Buthman ’24, widow of long-time Dean of the College and professor of history Dr. William Curt Buthman, died in Conway on Dec. 11, 2008. She was 103.
Throughout her life Mrs. Buthman was an active member of the community. She was involved in Hendrix Dames, First United Methodist Church, Chapter CA of PEO and Jr. Shakespeare Club.
In an article in the Log Cabin Democrat about her 100th birthday, Mrs. Buthman recalled Conway back in the “good old days.” She said that young people in her day complained about the lack of things to do, just as they do today and that the face of Conway hasn’t changed as much as one might think. "Our county was dry then, like it is now. But folks went to Morgan for their whiskey like they do now," she said, illustrating her point.
In the same article Mrs. Buthman recalled meeting her husband during her junior year at Hendrix: "On campus he looked like another student," she said of the young professor.
Mrs. Buthman graduated magna cum laude from Hendrix College in 1924 and taught high school for several years before marrying Dr. Buthman. "When he looked my way one day, we started dating and decided to get married when summer came. We took our marriage vows on Aug. 23, 1928. I resigned my job as a public school teacher and became Erma Guice Buthman, housewife," Mrs. Buthman told the Log Cabin Democrat reporter. Professor Buthman taught history at Hendrix until he died in 1979.
In spite of increasing difficulty getting around, Mrs. Buthman continued to be heavily involved in the Hendrix community during her final years. “Mrs. Buthman faithfully attended all alumni events on campus in recent years whenever she could,” said Pamela Owen, associate vice president for Alumni Relations.
Especially memorable was Mrs. Buthman’s presence at the Half Century Club Luncheon where she was recognized as the most senior alumna for over 15 years.
“Everyone at the luncheons enjoyed honoring her and sharing his or her fond memories of Dr. and Mrs. Buthman.” Owen said, “She will be greatly missed.”
On her 100th birthday the Log Cabin Democrat described her as being “lighthearted as ever and attuned to the times. She is amiable and conversant and sharp as a tack.” Mrs. Buthman will be remembered by those whose lives she has touched as an avid conversationalist whose quick wit and kindness made her a joy to be around.
Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, Conway or to the Buthman Scholarship or Lectureship Memorials at Hendrix College.