Jade Butcher

Jade Butcher, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, coach, and Indiana University football legend, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2024, in Bloomington, Indiana, at the age of 76. Born on May 4, 1947, in Clear Creek, Indiana, to Clifford and Catherine (Mobley) Butcher, Jade's life was marked by his unwavering enthusiasm, love for his family, and his remarkable contributions to the world of sports.
Jade's journey through life was as vibrant and dynamic as his personality. After graduating from Bloomington High School, where he first showcased his extraordinary talent on the football field, Jade went on to attend Indiana University. There, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and met the love of his life, Gail (Thrapp) Butcher. The couple married on October 13, 1972, and together they raised four wonderful children: Kate (Mark McNeal), Cassie (Seth Anderson), Skyler (Kasey Butcher), and Ireland (Eli McPike). Jade's joy was further multiplied by the blessings of his adored grandchildren: Joden Moore, Maya Doyle, James Butcher, Jase Butcher, June Butcher, and Skyla Anderson, all of whom inherited his spirit and passion for life.
Jade's passion for sports was evident beginning with his high school football and basketball careers. He was an All-State First Team for basketball, and he also excelled on the football field at Bloomington High School. Jade was selected in 1965 for the North-South All-Star game. However, it was on the football field where Jade truly left an indelible mark. Following high school Jade went on to become an IU football icon where he was considered by many as the best receiver who ever played Indiana University football. His accolades were numerous: he was a two-time Big 10 selection for the Hoosiers. He is second on the all-time receiving touchdown list for the Hoosiers with 30 catches for scores in his 3-year career. In his final season Butcher caught 37 passes for 552 yards and 10 touchdowns which gained him All-American status. He was on the 1967 IU team that went to the Rose Bowl, and he was selected for the Hula Bowl. Jade's football records at IU were nothing short of legendary.
Jade's athletic prowess was recognized with his induction into the IU Hall of Fame in 1988, the Indiana Hall of Fame in 2007, and the Monroe County Hall of Fame in 2011. His passion for the game extended beyond his own career as he dedicated himself to coaching youth sports leagues, including baseball, football, softball, and basketball. He served as an assistant high school football coach at Edgewood and Bloomington High School North, where he inspired young athletes with his wisdom and infectious smile.
Jade worked for Ralph Rogers, Inc. and later served in the OSHA department at Indiana University, where he shared his extensive knowledge and experience with gratitude and dedication.
Jade's interests reached far beyond the gridiron. He was a star watcher, a nature lover, and an avid collector of antiques. His green thumb brought beauty to the lives of those around him, just as his humor and passion brought laughter and inspiration. Above all, Jade loved his family dearly and encouraged them to pursue excellence in all their endeavors.
Preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Catherine, and his brothers, James and Jerry Butcher, Jade leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and passion. Those who knew him will remember him as a man who never knew a stranger, whose smile could light up a room, and whose heart was as big as his list of accomplishments.
A Visitation will be held with the family at Chandler Funeral Home in Ellettsville on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, from 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm with a Memorial Service to follow at 6:00 pm.