Arif Mansur Butt

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Obituary of Arif Mansur Butt:   A Life of Creativity, Passion & Generosity

Arif Butt, a vibrant man, full of creativity, profound passion and a heart full of generosity, passed away peacefully on September 14th.  Born in East Africa, Arif emigrated to the suburbs of London as a young boy, where he was shaped by the cultural richness of his origins and the vibrant energy of London life.

Early Life & Passion for the Arts

Growing up in London, Arif discovered his talents and love for multiple forms of art.  He was an avid soccer player, a gifted painter and thoughtful poet.  Alongside his love for the arts, Arif developed a deep admiration for rock and roll, with The Beatles becoming the soundtrack to his youth and beyond.  Along with his favorite team Arsenal who he cheered on and followed his entire life.

A Leader & Mentor 

After moving to Virginia, Arif pursued his love of the arts at the Corcoran School of the Arts & Design. After he found his true calling in mentoring and leading young athletes through soccer. His coaching career became one of his most cherished contributions to the community. Through youth soccer leagues, Arif not only taught the technical skills of the sport but instilled values of teamwork, discipline and perseverance in his players. His leadership extended beyond the field; he became a father figure to many of the athletes, helping them navigate both their athletic and personal journeys.  He role later as a soccer referee including collegiate games, showcased his integrity, fairness, and love for the game.

Entrepreneurship & Style

Arif was an ambitious entrepreneur who founded his logistics and courier company, ExpressBlue.  His business reflected his drive and dedication to quality service.  He loved his clients, particularly Dior, Hermes, Chanel and Liljenquist & Beckstead/Lenkersdorfer where Arif’s work allowed him to blend his entrepreneurial skills with his innate love for design and creativity.   Arif had a deep appreciation for design and aesthetics, which translated into every aspect of his life.   Whether it was the clothing he wore, the art he created, or the way he carried himself, Arif exuded sophistication and a commitment to beauty.

A Life of Generosity and Connection

Known for his remarkable networking skills, he had an uncanny ability to bring people together.  He had friends from all walks of life.  He used his gifts to fundraising many charitable causes, whether for an individual in need or for a large charity.  He always sought ways to give back to others, whether through mentorship, philanthropy, or simple acts of kindness.

Family and Loved Ones

Arif leaves behind his devoted wife, Glynis with whom he shared close to 30 years, a life of love, adventure and partnership. Together, they nurtured not only each other, but also their beloved dogs, who brought great joy and comfort to their lives.

Arif is also survived by his deeply cherished siblings:  Javed, Jimmy, Parvez, Shamim, Rosie, Tariq and Asad.  And his brothers-in-laws and their respective wives: Wil & Pam, Matthew & Susan and close family Denise and Chris & Lori.  His many nieces and nephews, both in the US and across the pond, will always remember their uncle as a generous, loving and thoughtful figure who delighted in spoiling them with kindness and affection.

Arif’s loving parents Ahmed and Kaniz who preceded him in death, greatly influenced and shaped his life.  Arif was also deeply influenced by his father-in-law, Wil, who preceded him.

Arif’s love for others extended beyond his immediate family.  He was especially close to Michael, whom he regarded and loved as a son.  Michael held a special place in Arif’s life, as did his first wife, Patricia.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to his wonderful caregivers, Henry and Justin, whose care, compassion and companionship brought him comfort, joy and dignity.   Also, special thanks to Blue Ridge Hospice who cared for him for over a year, especially his nurse, Michelle who provided warmth and comfort as well as Casey the music therapist whose beautiful voice he adored as she sang all his favorite tunes including his favorite Imagine by John Lennon.

A Celebration of Life

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Arif’s remarkable life will be held on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at Leesburg Colonial Funeral Home.  The viewing will take place at 11am followed by a service at Noon.  Friends and family are invited to gather for a reception immediately afterward at River Creek Clubhouse, located on Olympic Blvd in Leesburg, VA.

In lieu of flowers, the family request, that donations be made in Arif’s memory to CurePSP, www.psp.org or to The Cardigan Welsh Corgi Club of America, www.cardigancorgis.com, both causes that were close to his heart