Henry Leroy Butler

He leaves behind his loving wife of 45 years, Betty L. Butler, one son, Andre I Butler and grandson Kharii Butler. He also leaves behind 5 step-children; Melvin (Jeff) Newman, Bridgette Branson, Kim Newman, Jason Newman, and Daniel Newman as well 10 step-grandchildren, a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and close friends. He was preceded in death by Stepson Ricky Newman.

Henry graduated from Frederick Douglass High school in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. After high school he worked in construction and later went on to have a successful career at the Washington Gas Co. He worked his way up to inspector and after 32 years of service he retired.

Henry loved big family events at the family’s home spot…”The Hill”. The most famous yearly event was the “Butlers BULL ROAST”. He enjoyed everything about this event. This was an all-time “Butler” Tradition which he enjoyed immensely. He would be so excited with prepping the beef, lighting up the fire pit and flipping the beef on the pit all night long. He had the beef cooking down to a science with watching and keeping the fire just right for cooking the meat to perfection. It was all hands on deck as he guided the family through the preparations for the BULL ROAST. This was hard work but Henry never seemed fazed by it - this was an event he truly loved.

Aside from that, maintaining the home spot was a part of his daily life. Climbing on his tractor and cutting the grass of their massive property. All passersby could always expect to see his friendly face and a welcoming wave. This was peace for Henry. And of course THE GARDEN. He LOVED his garden filled with tomatoes, cabbage and an abundance of kale which he loved to share with every visitor. One year he successfully grew the largest cabbage anyone in this area had ever seen. We all marveled at it and this was a fun photo opportunity for the kids and him.

Who can forget the infamous Egg Nog! Come October, the orders would begin and Henry was in his glory. We all knew we would have delicious egg nog well into February. He enjoyed when folks stopped by to chat and sip egg nog with him; he’d start by offering a small glass to sample and for sure they would come back for more.

Henry wore many hats; from cooking his famous pig feet to stirring up a serious pot of soup. He took pride in everything he did, exercising care and true commitment to all things he enjoyed doing.

He was well respected in the community and always made a drop in visitor feel welcome at his home.

He loved laughing and joking with his wife Betty and her friends, often given them humorous nick names.

He will truly be missed by his wife and best friend, Betty. They were true companions sharing jokes, playing cards and teasing each other. They certainly exemplified the traditions of marriage and commitment for what it stands for in the eyes of Jehovah God; the bond of matrimony.