Deacon Howard Butler Memorial Held

A large crowd of family and friends gathered in the fellowship hall of the First Baptist Church September, 3rd, to participate in the 5th Annual Deacon Howard Butler, Sr. Book fund Banquet.  The program theme was "Believe It, Achieve It, Receive It."  The purpose of the event was to raise money for scholarships to assist young students from the Warren area to purchase books for college.  A number have been assisted over the past several years.  Martha Reed served as MC for the event and did an outstanding job.

The 2016 recipients were:
Destinies Owens
Khaleah Rhodes
Tre Moore
Marquis Moore
All were on hand to receive their awards except for Tre Moore, who was represented by his father Warren Police Sergeant Terrence Moore.

In addition to a marvelous, the attendees were entertained musically by " The Butler Boys " consisting of Howard Butler, Jr., Ssam Butler, Jr, Jimmy Butler, Jerry Butler and Jalen Flood.  Guest speaker was Lady Shaneil "PJ" Yarbrough who gave an inspirational presentation on the theme of "Believe It, Achieve It, Receive It."  She gave her personal testimoney and encouraged the young students and everyone present to work hard, be dedicated and follow the Lord.  She was well received by the entire audience.

The banquet was concluded by comments from Mrs. Jimmie Butler, wife of the late Deacon Butler.
She thanked all who took part and encouraged the students to strive for success and to go to college to learn, not play around.

Deacon Howard Butler was a leader in the Power House Church of God In Christ for many years.
He was a hard worker and a dedicated family man who also served the city of Warren as a civic minded citizen and as a member of the Warren Planning Commission.  On hand to help honor Deacon Butler was former Warren Mayor R. Gregg Reep, District Judge Bruce Anderson and representing the First Methodist Church of Warren, Tommy Burrow, a long time friend of the Butlers.