Vernon Finnell Butler, Jr.

Vernon Butler, Jr. (Bucky) 47, beloved son, brother, father, and friend of Dallas, TX, passed away on February 21, 2024 surrounded by his loved ones, after a brief battle with heart disease. Vernon was born on May 15, 1976, in Dallas, Texas to parents Vernon Sr. and Cassandra. Vernon was their eldest son who paved the way for the rest of the Butler bunch. As a child, Vernon loved all things family. His interest in sports would only grow as he got older and was encouraged to try many different activities and sports, in which he found his passion in football.  

After graduating from Ferris High School in 1994, Vernon and attended Washington University with his passion for football in tow. He excelled both academically and physically during his time at the University. His exceptional skills on gift field led him to a successful career in college football. Vernon was a three-time all-University Athletic Association (UAA) selection and the 1997 UAA Offensive Player of the Year. He ranks first in school history in touchdowns (39) and points (236), third in receiving yards (2,431) and fourth in pass receptions (129). He also holds school records for receiving touchdowns for a career (36), season (14) and game (4). A two-time Darryl Sharp Memorial MVP selection, Vernon was a member of three UAA Championship Teams and helped guide the team to a 27-11 record in four seasons. He was also a member of the UAA Champion 1,600 relay team at the 1997 UAA Indoor Championships, and won the 1997 UAA Outdoor title in the 400 and 400 relay. Vernon was proudly inducted into the Washington University Hall of Fame in 2018. 

Off the field, Vernon would go on to spend his manhood year heavily dedicated to excelling  corporately  with UPS and cultivating amazing relationships with friends and family. Vernon cherished his role as a father. He was a loving and dedicated father to his daughter,  Willa Rhys Butler. Everyone  who knows Vernon knows that Willa was the center of his world. 

In addition to his accomplishments in football and fatherhood, Vernon was known for his kindness, generosity, and positive impact on the lives of those around him.  #89 was the life of the party and the epitome of true friendship.  His memory will forever be cherished, and his spirit will continue to live on in our hearts.

Vernon is survived by his father and mother, Vernon Sr. and Cassandra, sisters Schaquela  and  Marquita and brother, Cedric; daughter, Willa Rhys; 2 nieces LaBria Symone and Macaria Sharae; 2 nephews, Derrick Keith, II and Myles Raymir; godmother, Norma Jean Hines; significant other , Emily Kemp.; a host of loving aunts and uncles, cousins, classmates, and amazing friends.  

Serices for Vernon Finnell Butler, Jr, 47, will be 11:00am Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Jefferson Junior High School Auditorium

Vernon was born May 15, 1976, and transitioned February 21, 2024, at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital.

Mr. Butler was 47 years old.

A full obituary will be published.

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