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Dr. Roosevelt D. Butler September 26, 1934 - May 28, 2022 Lakewood, Washington - Roosevelt DeLeon Butler (87) transitioned to his heavenly home on May 28, 2022. He was born in Edna, Texas on September 26, 1934, to Mr. Stephen Henry Butler Sr. and Ms. Serwiller Hines-Butler. He was the youngest of seven children. "Rudy", as many called him, was a scholar at an early age. He was valedictorian of his high school class and graduated at the age of 16. After high school, Rudy attended Texas A&M where he graduated and went on to become an officer in the U.S. Army. While stationed at Fort Lewis, in Tacoma, Washington, Rudy met his bride to be, Mater Joyce Birge. They were married in 1959 until her passing, earlier this year. During their 63 years of marriage, they traveled the world and had four children along the way. Rudy was a Vietnam War Veteran who received many honors during his 27-year career, where he achieved the lofty rank of Colonel. After retirement from the Army, Rudy followed his scholarly aspirations by becoming a professor at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ). While at TCNJ, Rudy became the only black tenured professor on staff. Rudy was always a high achiever, and his academic acumen was one of the many areas where he excelled by obtaining multiple master's degrees and two PhDs. Throughout his life, Rudy, was known for his giving spirit, never forgetting a birthday or an anniversary. The number of charities, churches, and people that he helped were countless. The lives that he touched will forever be changed for the better. In addition to his parents, Rudy was predeceased by his wife (Mater Joyce Birge-Butler), his daughter (Reanitsa Butler-Lofton), four sisters (Gviller Butler-Callis, Lenora Butler-Jones, Serwiller Henrietta Edwards, Nettie Ruth Butler-Washington), and two brothers (Stephen Henry Butler, Joe Earnest Butler). Surviving family members include Derrick D. Butler (son) and his family (Janet, Braylee, Barrett), Andre Dion Butler (son) and his family (Kay, Chance), Alischia D. Besteman (daughter) and her family (John, J.R., Alex), along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews. A celebration of life will be held at 1:00pm on June 11, 2022, at the Tacoma Country and Golf Club (13204 Country Club Dr SW, Lakewood, WA 98498 – (253) 583-7562). Bright clothing is encouraged. In lieu of flowers or for those wishing to provide gifts in remembrance, donations can be made in Rudy's name to his church: UMC at Lakewood, 6900 Steilacoom Blvd SW, Lakewood, WA 98499.
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