Richard Butler

Richard Douglas Butler Jr., known affectionately as Rick or Rhett, passed away peacefully in Stockton, California, on June 27, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on March 13, 1949 in New York, Rick was the oldest of five siblings and lived a vibrant and thoughtful life marked by creativity, charisma, and a deep love for his family. Rick was an entrepreneur, consultant, and director, known for his visionary thinking, bold ideas, and out-of-the-box solutions. He approached both life and work with curiosity, heart, and a keen ability to solve problems in innovative ways. A dreamer at heart and a fun-time guy through and through, Rick's magnetic personality left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He was an amazing storyteller-his tales full of wit and color and he had a gift for making everyone he met feel welcomed instantly. He was also extremely enthusiastic about Pine Mountain Lake, in Groveland, his happy place. Rick is lovingly remembered by his three daughters: Bethany Smith and her husband David, along with their daughters Riley and Cameron; Kerry Morris and her husband Danny, with their daughters Lennan and Teigan; and Kirby Li and her husband Jeff. Rick's legacy lives on in the lives of his children and grandchildren, who will carry forward his adventurous spirit, sense of humor, and deep compassion. Rick will be dearly missed and forever remembered for his warmth, his wit, and the way he lit up every room he entered. A celebration of Rick's life will be held at a later date. Please leave your condolences below. Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Butler family.