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Jan. 29, 1945 – Oct. 22, 2024

NATCHEZ – A funeral service for Richard Anthony Butler (Dickie), 79, of Natchez, will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 25, 2024, at Assumption Catholic Church, officiated by Father Aaron Williams. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 until 11 a.m. at the church. Burial will follow at Natchez City Cemetery under the direction of Laird Funeral Home.

Dickie was born on Jan. 29, 1945, one of eight children, to Elbert and Margaret Butler in Natchez. He was a lifelong member of Assumption Catholic Church where he played the organ for 10 years and St. Mary’s Basilica where he was a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Dickie graduated from Cathedral School then went on to the University of Southern Mississippi where he earned a master’s degree in Education. He was regarded as an amazing teacher during the 28 years he taught at Natchez-Adams School District and the 12 years he spent in Concordia Parish.

Dickie was most famous as the “Piano Man” because of the many venues he played around Natchez. He was a favorite at the Eola Hotel, various wedding parties, and the weekend pianist for Dunleith Plantation.

Dickie is survived by his loving wife, Gloria; children, Felicia Mann and Richie Butler; grandchildren, Cole and wife, Nikki Mann, and Zack Mann; great-grandchild, Sahara Mann; siblings, John Allen, Bruce, and Sister Ann Marie Butler along with many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Elbert and Margaret Butler, and four siblings, Elbert Butler II, “Pete” Bowlin, “Wunky” Martin, and Marion Peters.

Pallbearers for the service will be Joey Martin, Tommy Combs, Henry Butler, Mike Bowlin, Johnny Myers, and Jimmy Fuqua.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at lairdfh.com.