Obituary of Gerard "Jerry" Butler, Reserve Mines

We deeply regret to inform you that Gerard “Jerry” James Butler, age 72, passed away on Thursday, June 18th, 2020 at the VG Hospital in Halifax. Born in Glace Bay, Jerry was the son of the late John and Anne (Strang) Butler. He attended St. Anne Elementary and St. Michael Senior High School before pursuing a career in teaching at St. Francis Xavier University with distinctive resolve. He taught for 34 years in the Glace Bay school system. Jerry enjoyed sports, especially softball and hockey, and he loved to spend time in his garage tinkering on old Ford and Chevy cars. He is survived by his wife, Fonda (Bianchini); daughters, Sheena (Mike) and Cherie (Marc); son, John-Peter (Colette); four grandchildren, Elena, Carson, Olivia, Layla, and one step-grandson, Kyle. Also left to mourn is his brother, Stephen Butler; sisters, Marie Bigley, Helen Butler, Rita MacLean, Susan Nearing and Sr. Joan Butler of the Sisters of Charity. Besides his parents, Jerry was predeceased by his brother, John Butler and his sister, Shannon Parsons. We thank God for Jerry’s gift of a large loving family and many kind friends. A world so burdened by hurt needs people like you to reflect God’s love. When love is absent you will not find justice and you will not find peace. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate a simple prayer being said for stable global peace. Without peace, there is no future. Cremation has taken place under the direction of V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, Cremation & Reception Center, Glace Bay. Due to Covid-19, there will be a private burial service only. The committal prayers will be performed by Jerry’s nephew, Deacon Shawn Bigley at St. Joseph’s Holy Family Cemetery. On line condolences to the family can be expressed at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca P.S. Compared to eternal life “A life’s but a span”