Sam Butcher was an artist who founded Precious Moments and designed many of their Christian-themed collectible figurines.
- Died: May 20, 2024 (Who else died on May 20?)
- Details of death: Died at the age of 85.
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Sam Butcher’s legacy
Butcher loved to draw from a young age, and he often drew scenes inspired by his Christian faith. He began drawing professionally for the children’s ministry Child Evangelism Fellowship. Among other tasks, Butcher told bible stories on the CEF television show, “The Treehouse Club,” illustrating as he spun tales. It was at CEF that he met his future business partner, Bill Biel. In 1974, the two co-founded Jonathan & David, named after the biblical figures. Their early offerings included flannel boards for Sunday schools, buttons, and greeting cards featuring children drawn in Butcher’s signature style.
That style would become wildly popular. The children Butcher drew had large, teardrop-shaped eyes that gave them an emotional and sentimental appeal. The greeting cards became popular, and by 1978, Butcher and Biel had been approached by a businessman who wanted to turn the drawings into porcelain figurines. They agreed, and the first Precious Moments figurines were launched.
The figurines quickly found an audience that was eager to buy and display the Christian-themed art. Thousands of designs have now been produced, many designed by Butcher – often inspired by his children. Some of the discontinued figurines are now worth thousands of dollars. Butcher also designed and founded the Precious Moments Chapel in Carthage, Missouri, featuring paintings and sculptures in his signature style.
Tributes to Sam Butcher
Full obituary: Yahoo!
