JT Butler Obituary: Upperman Football Team Volunteer Died After Heart Attack
JT Butler, born on March 30, 1947, was the son of Mable Isabelle West Butler and Hilliard Jennings Butler.
A graduate of Oneida High School in 1965, JT proudly served in the United States Air Force as an ICBM Launch Officer.
Following his military service, he pursued higher education at the University of Tennessee from 1970 to 1974. He obtained a degree in Forestry—a source of enduring pride for him.
Upon graduation, JT embarked on a career in the State Parks Service. Eventually, he was promoted to the esteemed position of Park Manager at Rock Island State Park.
His dedication to preserving and promoting the natural beauty of Tennessee shone through in his work.
JT Butler’s unwavering commitment to public service continued until his well-deserved retirement.
JT Butler Obituary
On Friday, November 24, 2023, the Upperman community was plunged into grief as JT Butler passed away in Greeneville, TN.
The news of his demise reverberated through the community, leaving behind a void that will be challenging to fill.
In this time of sorrow, the community extends heartfelt condolences to JT’s family and urges everyone to keep them in their thoughts and prayers.
Beyond his professional achievements, JT’s legacy lives on through his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched.
JT was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, surviving by twelve children, five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
As a beloved father and “pappy,” his impact reached beyond familial bonds. He was a familiar face on the sidelines of Upperman football games and basketball matches.
His love for sports and the Upperman Bees, in particular, was evident in his unwavering support and volunteer work for the team.
Likewise, the funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 29, at Stevens Street Baptist Church in Cookeville, TN.
It will provide an opportunity for the community to come together and remember the man who left an indelible mark on their hearts.
JT Butler Collapsed Amidst Upperman Win Celebration
Upperman High School’s football team achieved a historic victory on Friday night. They secured a 21-14 win over the Greeneville Greene Devils, earning a coveted spot in the state football championship game.
Among the jubilant crowd celebrating this unprecedented triumph was JT Butler. Tragically, the celebration took a somber turn as JT suffered a heart attack.
Whereas the Upperman community watched in shock and disbelief as one of their most ardent supporters collapsed on the field.
Despite the swift response and efforts to resuscitate him, JT Butler succumbed to the heart attack, leaving the community in mourning.
Albeit, JT had been a familiar and comforting presence for the Upperman football team.
He contributed generally by volunteering his time, doing their laundry, and providing unwavering support.
The heartbreaking incident unfolded in front of hundreds of Upperman fans. In a poignant display of solidarity, they prayed and encouraged JT as he was being taken off the field.
His role as a grandfather figure for the football team endeared him to many. Moreover, his sudden departure has profoundly impacted the Upperman community.
In addition, social media platforms have been flooded with messages of support and condolences for the grieving Butler family.
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