Obituary of Thomas Andrew Butler

Thomas Andrew Butler of St. Petersburg, FL, formerly of Rye, NY passed away on February 9, 2023. 

Tom was the son of Irish immigrants, Michael and Mary, who raised him and his 4 brothers and 1 sister in Rye, NY. As children blessed with an entrepreneurial spirit, each found great successes over their lifetimes. He was the devoted husband and father of seven children, 6 sons and 1 daughter. He met the love of his life, Barbara, 35 years ago, and they filled each day with laughter and joy. Tom was a passionate attorney, who relished the intricacies of the law and advocated zealously for his clients. He was always one to quietly and respectfully help others in need. He was happiest when surrounded by his wife and children in heated debates while eating a good Italian meal. He loved traveling the world with his “luvs” and finding a good spot to nap and enjoy the view. He served his country as an embassy guard and drill instructor in the U.S. Marine Corps and maintained his dedication through his work with the Marine Embassy Guard Association. He was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, who always lent a word of sound advice. 

Tom graduated Stepinac High School, Class of 1950; Fordham University, Class of 1959; and Fordham Law School, Class of 1962. Tom was the founding partner of Butler, Fitzgerald & Potter Law Firm. His accomplishments included serving as a Rye City Councilman, Marine Embassy Guard Association legal advisor and one of the founding members, and recipient of M.E.G.A.’s “President’s Award.” 

He is survived by his wife Barbara Butler, and children: Michael E. Butler; Christopher (Petey) Butler; David P. Butler (George B. Lutsch); Timothy F. Butler (Robert G. Becker); Thomas A. (Katie) Butler, Jr.; Deirdre (Matt) Ostrowski and Alexander Butler; nine grandchildren: Brendyn, Ryan, Liam, Olivia, Griffen, Callie, Fiona, Thomas III and Emily; two great grandchildren: Gianna and Logan; and siblings: Jack and Kevin. His siblings, Marty, Timothy and Margaret pre-deceased him.

The family will receive friends at the Graham Funeral Home in Rye on Monday, February 13, 2023, from 4 PM to 7 PM. A mass will be held at the Church of the Resurrection on Tuesday at 10 AM. The mass will be livestreamed for those who are unable to attend in person.  To view the livestream, please click here.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Wounded Warrior Project or the ASPCA.