James "Butchie" Selton

James Jerome Selton, known to family and friends as Butchie and Jimmie, was born in St. Paul, Minnesota on April 23, 1946 to the union of James Jerome Selton Sr. and Anita Louise McFarland-Selton. Butchie was raised in Knoxville, Tennessee, before finally settling in Detroit, Michigan as a young adult.

Upon completion of high school, James immediately entered the United States Army. During his time in the armed forced, he served in the Vietnam War under the 101st Airborne Division. He was honorably discharged with 5 medals of honor.

Butchie was a loving and giving person. He did not mind helping others when he could. His sibling’s fondest memory is, a young Butchie, enjoying grape soda and Hostess chocolate cupcakes in their favorite rocking chair. In later years, Butchie could be found enjoys cards with friends and traveling around on his bike, Purple Rain. James spent his final days listening to the sweet sounds of Motown music, surrounded by loved ones.

Butchie is preceded in death by his father, James Selton, mother, Anita Louise McFarland Woodard, sisters, Lauretta Garner, Etta Wade, and Doretha Easterly Brabson.

Butchie leaves to cherish his memories and legacy his children, Mitch, Reginald Sims, Cherie Selton-Tse (Gordon), Shannon Whitaker (Grady), Sharonda Ginyard, Nakita Stribling, a host of grandchildren. Four siblings, Stephen “Pete” (Connie) Burress of Punta Gorda, Florida, Gladiola “Honey” Selton of California, Gertrude “Trudy” (Steve) Woods of Twinsburg, Ohio, Wanda “Wendy” McKinley of Kentucky and a host of nieces, nephews and other extended family members and friends.

Please share memories of Butchie at his guest book below.