Vernon Butler Jr., affectionately known as “Trouble” to those who knew him way back when, was born on June 30, 1949, to Martha and Vernon Butler Sr. in Dallas, Texas. He was a spirited addition to an already lively group of siblings: Vernell Johnson Turner Ray, George Bradley Sr., Robert Earl Mims, Brenda Butler Hayes, Renita, Billy Wayne, Landra, Rudy, and Ronnie Brown.

Vernon attended Booker T. Washington High School in Dallas, where he was a member of the golf team and a proud alum of the Class of 1967. He went on to attend college while working at Dallas Power & Light before being drafted into the U.S. Army. Vernon proudly served his country during the Vietnam War as a team lead in artillery, a role he carried out with dedication and honor.

Following his military service, Vernon devoted more than 40 years to working for the Federal Government, serving both the United States Postal Service and the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Vernon was the proud father of two children from his previous marriage, Valerie Butler Guyton and her husband Tyrone L. Guyton, Jr. and Jonathan Butler and his fiancée Jennifer Lathan. He was also a loving grandfather to Joseph Butler, Hendrix Guyton, and Jenesis Butler.

He leaves behind his wife, Janice Butler, her two children, Tracy Bagby and her husband Demont Bagby and Stacy Ray, and cherished grandson, Zion Bagby.

Vernon touched the lives of a host of nieces and nephews as well as many other extended family members, friends, and acquaintances. His charismatic conversations, infectious laughter, and welcoming smile will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

As a father, he was my constant encourager—unwavering in his support of my education and career pursuits, always excited about my ideas, and forever believing in the entrepreneurial dreams and possibilities we shared. 

- Valerie Butler Guyton