Thomas William Butler

Thomas Butler, 55, of New City, New York, passed away on Friday, October 17, after a courageous battle with ALS. He faced his illness with grace, humor, and an unwavering love for his family. Through his strength and spirit, Tom reminded all who knew him that love and laughter are life’s greatest anchors.

Tom was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend whose kindness and humor left a lasting mark on everyone he met. To those who knew him, Tom was, simply put, the best.

Born and raised on Long Island, Tom was a proud 1989 graduate of Bay Shore High School and received his Bachelor’s Degree from Marymount Manhattan College. He cherished time spent with family and friends along the shore and carried with him throughout his life a deep love of the outdoors.

Tom met the love of his life, Elise, in one of his favorite places, Kismet, Fire Island, where it was truly love at first sight. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised their two beloved daughters, Emma and Amelia, whom he adored beyond measure. Being their father was his greatest joy and proudest role.

For more than two decades, Tom was a cherished member of the J.G. Melon family on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Behind the bar, he was a source of comfort, laughter, and community, celebrating life’s joys, easing hardships, and greeting each guest with quick wit and a warm heart. Though Tom often said the honor was his, all who knew him felt it was truly theirs.

A true family man, Tom found happiness in life’s simplest moments. He had a rare gift for making everyone feel at home, turning strangers into friends and brightening every room with his easy smile and infectious humor.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Elise Butler; his cherished daughters, Emma and Amelia; his parents, Brian and Beverly Butler; his sisters, Jenn Phillips and Amy Tuscanes; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who were blessed to know him.

Wake services will be held at St. Augustine’s Church in New City on Tuesday, October 28, from 2:00–4:00 PM and 6:00–8:00 PM, with a Funeral Mass offered at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, October 29, at St. Augustine’s Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Tom’s honor to organizations supporting ALS research and patient care.

We are Compassionate Care ALS located at P.O. Box 1052 West Falmouth, MA 02574. Compassionate Care ALS www.ccals.org

ALS United - Great NY www.als-ny.org

Your contributions help advance care and hope for families facing ALS today and in the future.