Stephen Michael "Butch" McBride

Stephen Michael ("Butch") McBride passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, with his wife and daughter by his side.

Butch was born in 1945 and, as a child, enjoyed accompanying his veterinarian father to Churchill Downs and Keeneland Race Track. As a teen, he played football for the Shelbyville Red Devils and went on to play for Vanderbilt University and University of Louisville. His career as a ship captain with the Merchant Marines allowed him to travel the world. Consequently, no one had a better knowledge of world geography or astronomy than Butch McBride.

Butch enjoyed going on family vacations with his wife and daughter, discussing history and sports, and driving in the countryside listening to folk music. He was a man of few words, but exhibited a unique sense of humor that could catch one by surprise and result in spontaneous belly laughs. His greatest pride in life was becoming a "Poppy" in 2024.

Butch was predeceased by his parents, L.L. McBride, D.V.M., and Alyene Spies McBride. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Leslie Brown; beloved daughter, Casey McBride Conley (Aaron); much-loved grandson, August Michael Conley; sister, Linda Young Eicher (John), niece Jennifer Young; great nephew, Jay Patel; great niece, Reva Patel, and family dogs Loula (aka Lou Lou), Prine, and Sophie.

A private memorial service for family will be held at a later date.

Our heartfelt thanks go out to the nurses at Centerwell Home Health, Hosparus Health of Louisville, and staff at Frankfort Regional Medical Center. The family would also like to acknowledge the love and support received from Dan Hauck, Mary Lloyd Farmer, Faye Douglas, Denise LeCompte Schnieders, Pat Roberts and the many other friends and family members who reached out during Butch's illness.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, a nonprofit whose mission is to conserve the oceans where Butch spent a good portion of his adult life. You can donate to Sea Shepherd by mailing a check to PO Box 7750, Woodbridge, VA 22195, or calling the donations department at 212-220-2302, ext. 1.

Shannon Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.