September 1, 2024, 85, Goldsboro —
Leroy McKinley Butler, 85, of Goldsboro North Carolina, slipped into Eternity on Sunday, September 1, 2024, at UNC Health Wayne.
Leroy (aka McKinley or Mac) was born in Wayne County, on Sunday, March 19, 1939, to the late Johnnie and Essie Jacobs Butler Morrissey.
Upon completion of his education within the Wayne County Public School System, Leroy made the valiant decision to join the United States Army. The time he spent overseas was transformative and the memories remained with him throughout his life. He was proud of this accomplishment and strongly believed it was an honor and a privilege to serve his country.
Leroy had a noteworthy career with the Department of Defense, retiring as a Lead Motor Vehicle Operator from the National Imagery & Mapping Agency now known as the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. Following his retirement from the federal government, Leroy began another career as a long-distance truck driver, which he thoroughly enjoyed. When he wasn’t on the road, he spent his evenings and weekends bartending at American Legion Post 275 in Glenarden, Maryland. Although not much of a talker, he was a very observant people-watcher and a great listener. When called upon, he would forewarn patrons – don’t ask for his opinion if they could not handle his sometimes blunt and brutal honesty!
Over the years, Leroy received several personal and professional accolades and recognitions. One that he was particularly proud of happened in 2010 when he was formally raised to the sublime Degree of Master Mason by the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia. As an elder, he enjoyed wearing his Veteran’s cap and was full of pride when people would “thank” him for his service or pay for his restaurant meal to express their appreciation. These thoughtful gestures sometimes brought tears to his eyes and truly touched his soul.
In his early days, he was an avid rollerblade enthusiast. At times going from one part of the city to another – lost in the thrill of the experience. He also enjoyed long car rides. Traveling from Maryland to New York to visit with his oldest children and their families. As time went on, Leroy traded in his rollerblades for a smooth 1985 Harley Davidson. He would leave the house right after sunrise and may not be seen again until late evening. Savoring every minute of being on the open road.
A calm and quiet spirit, he entertained the company of others but was just as content being alone watching western movies and listening to his favorite music. His love of music was epic, and his ‘ear’ was so keen, that he often heard what the average listener did not. His music library was vast, however, jazz was his top-tier favorite and he would spend hours enjoying the sounds of the Ramsey Lewis Trio, Norman Brown, Ahmad Jamal, Najee, and many others. One of his favorite selections was “The Antidote” by jazz guitarist Ronny Jordan. Not only did he love music, but he also loved cooking. Leroy was a great cook, who received pure satisfaction in others enjoying his meals and delectable delights. He often arrived at gatherings with his delicious pineapple upside-down cake.
Leroy intentionally, but effortlessly, set himself apart from others. Always cool, calm, and collected – his unique style of dress and swagger placed him in a class all by himself. From his custom-made alligator cowboy boots to his head-turning full-length Duster, topped off by his striking black Stetson; wherever he went he was favorably complimented.
After the passing of his beloved wife, Jacqueline Denise Butler, Leroy spent time with family and close friends, including Theresa Zeigler. From sharing a simple meal or watching a grandchild play – he treasured those moments and often reflected on how fleeting life really is. Notwithstanding his health challenges, he was determined to make the most of every moment. Not an overtly religious man – he was still a man of faith, openly commenting, in his own way, on God being at the helm of it all – truly grateful for his “second chances.”
In his final years, it meant everything to Leroy to return home to Goldsboro. To be with his sisters and other family members was a blessing – a prayer answered. He was grateful to those who stepped up to make sure he was okay and expressed his sincere gratitude with deep emotion. He was home at last and it felt oh so good to him. His memory, his love, and his light shall forever flourish in those he loved.
In addition to his parents and beloved wife, Leroy was preceded in death by his truly devoted sister, Johnice Butler Jackson.
To cherish his memory and continue His Story are two sons, Anthony Evans (Cusena) and Bryan Thomas McKinley Butler (Stephanie); two daughters, Veronica Evans Roland, and Shameka Jones; eleven grandchildren, Anthony Moore, Darryl Evans, Jerome Allen, Anthony Evans II, Dallas Evans, Bianca Roland, Paul Roland, Bayleigh Butler, Brooklynn Butler, Braelynn Butler and Loxavier Jones; and seven great-grandchildren, India Evans, Anthony Evans III, Diamon Evans, Zyasia Allen, Cali Evans, Blair Roland and Dominick Roland.Three eternally devoted sisters, Doretha Austin (Donald), Geraldine Rowe (George) and Sandra Butler. Very special nieces and nephews, Darryl Austin, Travis Jackson, Tonya Sykes, Donna Anderson, Dorinda Connor, Greg Jackson, Toria Royster, Jef Jackson, Dr. Essie Rowe, Constance Wilson, Estavia Rowe, and Eric Waters. A special “daughter” of the heart, Erica Lynch (Michael), and a host of other relatives and friends.
“My hat is now a halo…my boots now touch the clouds…I hope my time on earth made each of you smile. I did not want to leave you but my time on earth was done – I am now at rest in Heaven with My Father and His Son.
Service arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.
