Edward T. Butler, 87, of New Bedford, passed away on Sunday, December 17, 2023. He was the loving and loyal husband of Violet N. (Williams) Butler for 57 years.
Born in Acushnet, son of the late David and Isabella (Livsey) Butler, he lived in Dartmouth most of his life before moving to New Bedford. Ed was a life member at the Knights of Columbus, St. Isidore chapter and a devoted member of St. Lawrence Church. He was a dedicated employee of The Providence Journal for over 25 years.
Edward was the epitome of a loving husband and father, always putting his wife and children’s needs before his own. He rarely missed a dance recital, play, soccer or football game, and took his family on countless road trips. He doubled down on his activities when it came to his grandchildren, teaching them to ride bikes, play Wiffle ball, go sledding or play the ukulele. As competitive as he was, (known for his diving catches in Wiffle ball) his kindness was still evident in his underhand pitches to those who were new to the game or under the age of 8, to the ire of his teammates. Ed was just as devoted to his extended family, supporting, encouraging and helping them whenever and however needed throughout his life. Ed, Dad, Papa, Uncle Ed, Cousin Ed, Mr. Butler, no matter how you knew him, you encountered an authentically gentle and caring man.
He will be deeply missed by his wife Violet, his children, Erin MacGuire and her husband Michael; Patricia Goff and her husband Kevin; and Edward Joseph Butler and his wife Catherine; as well as his 6 grandchildren, Jim, Caroline, Jackie, and Kate MacGuire, and Tshala and Malia Butler, of whom "Papa" could not have been prouder. He also leaves behind his cousins, Martin and James Butler. He is predeceased by his daughter, Mary Elizabeth, and his siblings, Jane Parkin and David and William Butler.
Edward's funeral will be held on Thursday, December 28th at 9 AM from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford with his Funeral Mass at St. Lawrence Church at 10 AM and burial in St. Mary's Cemetery. His visitation will be on Wednesday from 4-6 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ed's memory to St. Lawrence Church, 110 Summer St. New Bedford, MA 02740