Born January 11, 1934, Richard was born and raised in Morristown, NJ, and later resided in Sparta, New Jersey. A man of steady faith and quiet devotion, he will be remembered for the constancy of his presence, the loyalty he showed to those he loved, and the kind-hearted way he moved through the world.
Richard was a US Army Veteran and carried that sense of duty throughout his life. He was employed by Craftsmen Photo Lithographers in East Hanover, NJ for 40 years, a testament to his reliability and steadfast commitment.
A long-time active member of St Mary's Episcopal Church Sparta, NJ, Richard’s faith was not merely spoken but lived—through fellowship, service, and a life grounded in care for others. He was a member of the Sussex County Oratorio Society for 40 years and a member of the former Corner Stone Theater in Sparta NJ, finding community and meaning in music and the arts. In his early years, he and his wife also enjoyed square dancing, bringing simple joy and companionship to the seasons of his life.
Richard was predeceased by his wife Beverly Butera. Richard is survived by his children, Margherita Butera, Ernest Butera (Kristi), Vincent Butera (Debbie), and Vernon Butera (Belinda); and by his grandchildren, Ashley, Austin, Paul, Stacey, and Zachary. He is also survived by Many Nieces and Nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Robert Butera; his sister, Jackie Butera; his father, Vincenzo E Butera; and his mother, Edith F. Perrault.
Memorial Visitation will be held at St Mary's Episcopal Church, 85 Conestoga Trail, Sparta, NJ 07871, on December 5, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Memorial Service will be held at St Mary's Episcopal Church, 85 Conestoga Trail, Sparta, NJ 07871, on December 5, 2026, at 3:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sussex County Oratorio Society, Box 426, Newton, NJ 07860, US, or to St Mary's Episcopal Church, 85 Conestoga Trail, Newton, New Jersey 07871, US.
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