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CHRISTOPHER FREDERICK "CHRIS" BUTTERWORTH
CHRISTOPHER BUTTERWORTH Obituary
Chris spent his formative years growing up in the small bedroom community of Colonial Heights, VA. A competitive athlete, talented springboard diver and pitcher for the 1969 Colonial Heights BIB team, Chris had a passion for creation. His drawings reflect an uncompromising attention to detail. He also enjoyed writing poetry. He wanted his works to emulate those of the masters; the Keats and the Kiplings, the Chaucers and the Eliots.
Chris graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a master's in speech pathology. He was dedicated to his craft as well as his clients.
Affable and empathetic, Chris was a friend to everyone he met. He was also a staunch advocate for the underprivileged because he too, had endured varying degrees of economic hardship throughout his life.
While the disenfranchised had no better advocate, it was the animal kingdom who had no better champion. Chris loved all animals, especially those of the four-legged variety.
When it came to music, Chris' interests covered a broad spectrum, from classical to rock and everything in-between. He also enjoyed playing bass guitar. As a teenager, Chris learned to play the trumpet and was a proud member of the Colonial Heights High School Marching Band.
Chris is preceded in death by his loving wife, Frances "Franny" Butterworth, his mother, Patricia Butterworth and his father, Sidney Butterworth. He is survived by his two sons, Christopher and Geoffrey, both of whom put their lives on hold to provide around-the-clock care for their dad after his fateful diagnosis. For his two brothers, Stewart Butterworth of Reisterstown, MD, and Craig Butterworth of Henrico County, VA, Chris' passing will leave a personal void that can never be made whole again.
A memorial service will be held at Wesley United Methodist Church at 3701 Conduit Road, Colonial Heights, VA, on April 19th at 5:30 p.m.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for CHRISTOPHER BUTTERWORTH
Mary Godwin
March 25, 2020
I just received (3/24/20) an email reminder to remember Christopher Butterworth. I didn't need it, I will always remember Chris - I forget a lot but, I won't forget him - it's just so and I'm glad.
Steve Searock
April 19, 2018
I was friends with Chris when we both attended Atlantic Christian College in Wilson, NC. I am very saddened to learn of Chris passing. We had some good times and laughs back in the day.
Mary Cay Godwin
March 28, 2018
A very special light has gone dim on this earthly realm, a light of radiance and authenticity that was the boy and the man, Chris Butterworth. Chris possessed a childlike enthusiasm for whatever was at hand that he gave heart and bone deep effort to in commitment, sportsmanship, and all else. Never did I witness less than kindness and sincere interest in his treatment of others. Now that God has called this special child home, I know that Chris is better off than my human limitations can imagine. Further, I know that in the combined memory of all those who knew him, Chris will stay with us as much as he can and that the love he gave increased all the goodness in the universe with the addition of his heart-best contribution. Enjoy the heavenly music, Chris, and the great debates with angels about any issue you wish. It was long ago, but it was yesterday and so my world, this world, will never be the same without you. I am blessed to have known you.
Susan Daul
March 28, 2018
Gone way to soon, my heart ❤ goes out to the sons & brothers, May you grow closer than ever imagined. Just a class mate. Sue Williams Daul.
Kevin Connors
March 27, 2018
Your brother was a huge influence on you, Craig. That's been made obvious to all of us. I'm certain his spirit and your precious memory of him will remain in your heart and be a continuing source of strength as long as you live.
Lorrie Godsey
March 27, 2018
Miss you My friend!
Pat Harman
March 27, 2018
Though I did not know Chris personally our friendship grew on facebook. He always presented kindness to me in every posting. We shared the love of nature and animals. I miss you, Chris. May you and your lovely bride rest in peace.
March 27, 2018
Ken Storey...with fond memories of one of the "Butterworth twins"
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