Gerald (Jerry) Nelson Butcher, 80, formerly of Washington, went to his heavenly home on January 2, 2018, in Evansville, Indiana. He was born June 5, 1937, in the hamlet of Forestville, New York, to Nelson and Ethel (Crowell) Butcher.
After spending much of his youth in Michigan, he graduated in 1955 from Goshen High School and received his Bachelor of Science degree from Purdue University in 1959 and a Master’s of Science degree from Indiana University in 1970. On August 11, 1963, at Antioch Christian Church, he married the love of his life, Donna (Bailey) Butcher. Jerry worked as a teacher, counselor, football, baseball, and basketball coach for 37 years in Washington and in Darlington, Indiana. After his retirement, Jerry worked as a driver for Senior and Family Services. He was a charter member and former Deacon and Elder of New Hope Christian Church and also taught Sunday School. He was a member of Charity Lodge #30.
He loved Purdue University Athletics and often called his brothers to celebrate (or commiserate) after games. He was passionate about the Indianapolis Colts, St. Louis Cardinals, and the Indianapolis Racing League, having attended the race for many consecutive years and finally realized his dream to work at the Speedway after his retirement. He was also an enthusiastic collector of antiques and an avid follower of the Olympics.
Gerald is survived by his wife, Donna (Bailey) Butcher; daughter Mary Elizabeth Feagley (Nicholas); brothers Dr. Gene Butcher (Dr. Suzanne), Dale Butcher (Tonia), Dr. Gordon Butcher; sister Judith Nast (Tom); and two beloved grandchildren, Meredith Grace and Leighton Dane Feagley; and several nieces and nephews and their families. He is preceded in death by his parents. We will love him forever.
The funeral service for Gerald will take place on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at 11a.m. at New Hope Christian Church, with Bro. Michael Crosley officiating. Visitation will be at Gill Funeral Home on Friday, January 5, 2018 from 5-8pm and Saturday from 10-11am at the church prior to the service. Interment will follow the service at Sugarland Memory Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to New Hope Christian Church or Washington High School Athletic Department. Online condolences may be made at www.gillsince1872.com.
