JOHN H. BUTLER, JR.

Born in Steubenville, OH, John was the second of seven children. He attended Steubenville Public Schools and later earned his GED through Job Corps, where he received certifications in heavy machinery and construction. He retired from Weirton Steel after 30 years of service as an Electrical maintenance crew chief. John was a devoted and dedicated member of the Quinn Memorial AME Church, where he faithfully served as a Trustee Emeritus. Together with his late wife, Gwendolyn M. (Jones) Butler, he owned and operated the Safari Lounge Bar & Restaurant for over ten years, created a place where family and community would gather.

A proud motorcycle enthusiast, John was also a member of the Deacons Motorcycle Club, where he built lasting friendships and shared his love of the open road. He was preceeded in death by his beloved wife, Gwendolyn, on April 7, 2025; his parents, John H. Butler, Sr. and Robbie Simmons- Butler; his children Leigheal Butler, Rodney Butler, and John Priester; and his grandmother, Nettie Jane Dorsey-Simmons- Gordon.

John’s memory will be cherished by his sisters, Patricia J. Butler and Terry L. Jennings; his daughters, Arrieal Butler of Youngstown, OH, Tedra Alexander of Pittsburgh, PA, Monica Miles of Canton, OH, Johnnie Kay (David) Rimmer of Medford, OR, and Nikki Viers of Virginia; his sons, Raphael Butler, John and Justin Viers, and Sunta Grimm, all of Steubenville, and Cordell Priester of Massillon. He is also survived by his loving in-laws; Louis Jones (Belinda) of Wintersville, OH; Christine Sartor (Frank) of Jacksonville, FL; Vernon Jones (Gloria) of Jacksonville, SC; Maxine Thomas of Monroeville, PA; and Charles Perry Jones of Weirton, WV; as well as his dear Aunt Ella Curenton and her husband William. Grandchildren; Amin Butler, Xariah Viers, Terrick Grimm, Zacoria Grimm, and Jonathan Harton, all of Steubenville, OH; Asuan Saunders and Aniyah Saunders of Youngstown, OH; Raphael Butler, Jr. of Knoxville, TN; Nevarus Miles of Canton, OH; Latasha (Victor) of Pittsburgh, PA; and Maurice (Brianna) of New Jersey, Kayla, Michael, Elena, William Knowles, Mariah, Amirah Evans.

The Family wishes to recognize , Bill (Sherry) Gorby and Solomon “Doobie” Huffman, Jr.; cousin Nathan Huff, who were more like brothers; and his sisters for their unwavering support, dedication, and countless hours spent caring for their brother. A special acknowledgement is also extended to Uncle Louie for his constant visits and support of our Dad.