Phillip David “Buckshot” Butcher Sr., 71, of Clay County, West Virginia, died Wednesday, June 14, 2017, at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus.
He was the longtime owner and operator of his company, Buckshot’s Wrecker Service, in Clay, West Virginia. As a public servant his entire life, he was called upon 24 hours and seven days a week for those in need. He and his late wife, Fonda, graciously accepted their calling to help.
As a lifelong law enforcer, he also served the town of Clay as a volunteer chief of police, fireman and EMT. He was also a wildlife and animal control helper and advocate. He was known for his neighborliness, hospitality, courage and his drive to save lives. He was a member of Pleasant Dale Missionary Baptist Church and enjoyed storytelling and sharing his life experiences.
As an outdoorsman, he liked hunting, fishing, boating and four-wheeling. He grew up in Widen, West Virginia, as one of 10 children, which allowed him to master his mountainous surroundings and harness a lifelong love of the wild and wonderful West Virginia.
He was born on Aug. 21, 1945, on Wilson Ridge, in Clay County, to the late Loyd E. and Bessie Ruth Phillips Butcher. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his loving wife of 52 years, Fonda Gail “Fondababy” Frame Butcher; brothers, Loyd Butcher Jr. and Ronald Butcher; and sister, Virginia Moore.
He is survived by his children, Phillip D. (Cindy) Butcher II of Richwood, Loyd Lee Butcher of Marion and Mary Catherine Lentz of Charleston, West Virginia; five grandchildren, Gregory and Luke Lentz, Phillip David (Shaynna) Butcher III, Adam Butcher and Christina (Kenyen) Ritchie; siblings, Bob Butcher, Jean Williams, Judy (Bruce) Cantrell, Janet (Jim) Vietch, Sharon (Kermit) Oxley and his twin sister, Phyllis “Dawn” Sheidler; many nieces and nephews; and other relatives and lifelong friends.
A Celebration of Life memorial service will be held at a later date. Following cremation, his ashes will be scattered among his favorite hunting spot in the mountains. Underwood Funeral Home in Marysville is assisting the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a church of choice or St. Jude Children’s Research Center. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.underwoodfuneralhome.com.