Pastor Levi Butts Jr.

Pastor Levi Butts Jr, affectionately known as June to many, was born in Cleveland, Ohio on November 19, 1943. He was the fifth son born to the late Deacon Levi Butts Sr. and Mother Rutha Butts. He was proceeded in death by his brothers Deacon Vandy, Bishop Stanford, and sisters Gloria Vaugh and Liza Butts

Pastor Butts’ spiritual growth and development began at Williams Temple Church of God in Christ. He attended Sunday School and all services that his parents attended. He accredits the Williams Temple’s Sunday School for his ability to memorize scriptures and references. He received his fundamental studies through the Cleveland Public School System.

Pastor Butts had several driving jobs which, led him to Garfield Transit, where he remained until the company closed. Pastor was then hired by the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA). He worked faithfully for thirty years. This may be where Pastor Butts learned time management. His riders would say, “I wish all buses would be on time!” He continued to exhibit this trait until his death.

In 1986, Pastor rededicated his life to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He dedicated himself to servicing the church. He drove the church bus for those wanting to attend the weekday services.

He became a Minister in 1987. A few months after becoming a Minister, he met his wife, Deborah and was married in 1988. This love grew strong, for it was based on “God first and we are second.”

Pastor Butts continued to grow spiritually by studying and living God’s Word daily. He began is Jail Ministry by serving Cleveland City Jail and Euclid City Jail in 1990 – 2009.

In 1997, Pastor was ordained an Elder in the Church of God in Christ and joined OMC Fellowship C.O.G.I.C. where he became Assistant Pastor, under the leadership of his brother, Pastor Andrew Butts.

In 2004, Pastor founded New Genesis C.O.G.I.C. and served as Pastor for 21 years. He loved the

New Genesis family where he fostered a thirst and hunger for God’s Word. This is evident in members participating in Sunday, Tuesday and Friday Services.

Pastor Butts leaves to celebrate his life, his wife Deborah, sons Levi, Stanford (Zeda), Raymond (Christina), Aaron (Megan), Jimmy (Louise), Calvin (Areatha), Darren, William (deceased) daughters; Gloria (Michael), Carolyn, (Christopher) and LaShaun; Brothers Elder Nathaniel (Juanita), Andrew Sr. (Dorothy) Vanessa Williams (sister-n-law) and a host of Grandchildren, Great-grandchildren, Nieces, Nephews, and friends.