Jim Tom Butler, 87 of Albany, Texas and formerly of Crane, Texas passed away Thursday June 26, 2025. A Memorial service was at 1:00 P.M, July 1, 2025, at Albany Methodist Church in Albany, Texas with Pastor Tim Trimble officiating.

Jim Tom Butler was born on September 13, 1937, in Albany, Texas, Shackelford County to Hattie E. Butler and Leroy A. (Buddy) Butler. He had one brother, Billy Irl Butler.

The Fort Griffin Fandangle opened its 87th season this past weekend to strong attendance, welcoming more than 1,500 guests over the course of its first two shows.

An estimated 600 people filled the stands Friday night for opening night, followed by a crowd of approximately 900 on Saturday. Strong statewide marketing efforts and continued outreach to first-time guests played a key role in the turnout.

Main Street was lined with spectators on Saturday, June 21, as the annual Fort Griffin Fandangle Parade brought a colorful display of floats, riders, and music through downtown Albany. With 45 total entries, this year’s parade was one of the largest in recent memory.

Parade co-chairs John Ayers, Cori Bezner, and Claire Ware coordinated the event and kept everything running smoothly.

Visitors and locals alike will be able to enjoy a variety of activities offered in Albany this weekend prior to the final two performances of the Fort Griffin Fandangle.

Free events will be offered on Friday and Saturday including a quilt show, tracker organ concert, calliope concert, viewing the Picket House, longhorns on the courthouse square, exhibits and crafts kits at the Old Jail Art Center, plus several other activities.