James “JB” Butler was born June 12, 1965, to James R. and Josephine M. Butler. JB attended the Derby school system and leaves three children, Sarah Butler, Julianna Butler, and James A. Butler. He was predeceased by his mother, Josephine, and leaves his father, James R., and two sisters, Barbara S. Butler and Janice M. Butler.

JB was very articulate and a natural-born leader. He was the third generation in the Derby Fire Department. During his 35 years with the department, he was an auxiliary member, regular member, captain of Paugassett H&L Co. #4, chief of the department, and deputy fire marshal.

JB was a civic role model to the youth of his community as a Pop Warner football coach and a coach of girls’ softball. He took special interest in the Boy Scouts as a leader in their exploits, travel about the country, and camping at any time of the year. While carrying out his civic-minded activities, JB worked as the supervisor of environment of care and safety for the Griffin Hospital in Derby.

At the time of his passing, he was a firefighter, chief driver for Paugassett H&L Co. #4, and a deputy fire marshal for the City of Derby. JB never passed an opportunity to train others or develop himself through training.

Despite his untimely passing, JB touched the lives of many people, both young and old. His memory will continue to live on.