Mary H. Butler passed away peacefully on Nov. 1, 2024. A beloved mother and grandmother, she was predeceased by her husband of 49 years, Denis J. Butler, and their daughter Kathleen A. Butler. She is survived by sons Denis and Thomas, daughter-in-law Lisa, and four grandchildren, Delia, Thomas, Christopher, and Alexandra.
She was born on Dec. 21, 1931, to Joseph and Katheen Kerr and is survived by cousin John Lynch and predeceased by brothers John & Samuel Kerr and cousin Patricia Spangenberg.
Mary would often say that while others might boast about material belongings, that her most prized possessions were her family and their every accomplishment. These she called her jewels and declared herself rich with pride, love and compassion. It is by this ethos that she lived her life and sought to inspire others around her.
Mary was raised in Astoria, where she met wonderful lifelong friends and eventually met her husband, Denis. Together, they raised three children. The family was actively engaged in the community and public service, including as members of St. Joseph’s Parish and the Powhattan Democratic Club.
Professionally, Mary served as an aide to two ranking Members of the United States Congress and as a New York State Committeewoman, while Denis served for 25 years in the New York State Legislature and for some 40 years as Democratic District Leader. Prior to her roles in public service, Mary was a banker, working for the Bowery Savings Bank. She is a graduate of the New York Institute of Banking and Julia Richmond High School.
In her most recent years, Mary moved to the Greenwich-Stamford, Connecticut, area to be closer to her grandchildren, whom she adored so much.
Visitation took place on Sunday, Nov. 3, at Drago’s Funeral Home, 43-10 30th Ave., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, Nov. 4, at St. Joseph’s RC Church, 43-19 30th Ave.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to “Merry-Go-Round” c/o The Mews in Greenwich, a non-profit dedicated to enriching the lives of seniors.
