Melvin L. Butler

The Life of Mr. Melvin L. Butler

Melvin L. Butler was born on July 1, 1948, in Surry County, Virginia, to the late Ollie M. Butler and Willie Butler, Sr. He was called home to be with the Lord on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at Riverside Specialty Hospital surrounded by his loved ones.

Melvin received his education in the Isle of Wight County Public School System. He was blessed with one biological daughter, Teresa Butler; one cherished stepdaughter, Carla Winnegan; and two children he loved deeply as his own, Danyell Lambert and Raeford Bryant.

At a young age, Melvin relocated to Philadelphia, where he was employed by Goodman Brothers for several years. He later returned to his hometown of Smithfield, Virginia, where he was proud of his career, working alongside his beloved brother at Tidewater Utility Construction, Inc. for many years.

Following his retirement, Melvin enjoyed the simple pleasures of life: sleeping in, watching his favorite television shows, playing pool and cards, cheering on the New England Patriots and the Los Angeles Lakers, and cooking for the family reunion—one of his greatest joys, as he dearly loved his family.

Melvin was preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Ollie Butler; his sister, Mae A. Sowell; his granddaughter, Marki Butler; and other beloved relatives and friends.

Those left to cherish his memory include his children Teresa Butler and Carla Winnegan of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Danyell Lambert (Lloyd) of Florida; and Raeford Bryant (Doris) of Georgia and his significant love, Ella M. Spratley of Newport News, Virginia; his siblings, Willie Butler, Jr. (Jeanette) and Jackie Boothe (Reverend Willie, III) both of Smithfield, Virginia; his grandchildren, Cortnee Butler-Oliver (Todd), Nydire Butler, Jaelon Butler, Chantana Winnegan, Chevanna Winnegan, Tyron Snead, and Devon Lambert; seven great-grandchildren; a special nephew, Lawrence Butler; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and a lifelong friend, Larry Brown.

On Friday, July 25, 2025 viewing will be held from 3-6pm at Shivers Funeral Chapel. A Celebration of Life Service will be held 11am on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at the Chapel. Interment will follow the service in the Mt. Sinai Church Cemetery. Please keep the Butler family in your thoughts and prayers.