Samuel Butler

Samuel C. Butler Jr.—lovingly known as JR, Black, Sensei Butler, and Sosa—passed away peacefully on Monday, September 7, 2026, at the age of 47. He was born on November 9, 1978, in Easton, Maryland, to Darcel Batson and the late Samuel C. Butler Sr.

Samuel graduated from Woodbridge High School in Bridgeville, Delaware. Professionally, he served as a diesel technician supervisor at Waste Management and was also the proud owner of Butler Enterprises.

Samuel had a deep passion for Venn Kempo Jujitsu and was known as a dedicated family man, father, supporter, and pillar of his community. He generously gave his time by coaching flag football and encouraging those around him.

He also had a special love for his beloved fur babies, Suzie Rickards and Indigo Emmanuel Butler.

Samuel’s legacy will live on forever through the teachings he shared with his children, family, and friends. Samuel was preceded in death by his father Samuel C. Butler Sr. and grandmother Alice Jenkins.

Samuel is survived by his mother Darcel Batson of Denton, MD; 2 children Travar Owens-Butler of Georgetown, DE; Samantha Butler ( Kevin) of Lincoln, DE; significant other Christina Rickards of Long Neck, DE; one brother Brad Cornish of Dover, DE; 5 sisters, Tasha Aikens of Easton, MD, Malissa Butler of Easton, MD, Royshonda Boulden (Mark) of Elk Ridge, MD, Gemini Cornish of Seaford, DE, Laseana Naphier (Matthew) of Harrington, DE; step-son Jaiden Rickards of Long Neck, DE; step-daughter Jewdena Cannon of Laurel, DE; best friend Nicole Downing and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

“A loving father, tender and kind, what a beautiful memory you left behind.”