On Friday, January 25, 2019, Daniel “Dan” Leslie Butler, Sr., 87, passed away peacefully of natural causes at his home in Williamsburg, VA. Dan was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Jo Ann Burnett Butler; their two sons, Daniel “Les” Leslie Butler, Jr. (Lora), of Dallas, TX, Lance Burnett Butler (Audrey) of Lexington, KY; his three grandchildren, Chelsea Nicole Butler Isaac, Nicholas Leslie Butler and Zachary Jordan Butler (Maria): and two great grandsons, Abram Randall Isaac and Ellis Cooper Isaac.
Dan was born on November 5, 1931 in Huntington, WV to Daniel Mosby and Helen Elizabeth Leslie Butler. He received a full football scholarship to the University of Tennessee from 1950 – 1954 earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. He was also a proud team member of the 1951 National Championship Team where his lifelong passion for Tennessee Football was born. Dan served his country with honor, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel from the US Army after serving tours in Korea and Vietnam. He earned numerous medals for his valor, including The Purple Heart and Bronze Star. After his military career, Dan was the Athletic Director at Granby High School Norfolk, VA, which was also his alma mater.
Dan was a beloved member of the Governor’s Land community where he made life-long friends on the golf course, tennis courts, at the poker table, and walking Bentley, his cherished golden retriever. He attended the Williamsburg Community Chapel and was an active member of his community, including the Williamsburg Kiwanis Club, where he ushered at William & Mary games. And, at Christmas, you often found him ringing the bell outside local retail establishments to support the Salvation Army.
Dan led a full and honorable life. Dan had many passions, but his favorites were – his family, UT Football, and golf, including his golfing buddies in Governor’s Land. His kind, caring nature, gregarious personality, and unwavering friendship will continue to inspire and bring joy to all who knew him.
Dan was preceded in death by his sister, Mrs. Sally Jean Saunders and his parents, Daniel Mosby and Helen Elizabeth Leslie Butler.
A Memorial Service celebrating Dan’s life will be held at 2 PM Friday, February 1st, 2019 at the Nelsen Funeral Home, 3785 Strawberry Plains Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23188. Online condolences may be shared at www.nelsenwilliamsburg.com.
