William “Roy” Butt, a former Chelsea firefighter who passed away on Jan. 6 at the age of 92, left behind a remarkable legacy of accomplishments and admirable qualities worthy of remembrance.
During his time at Chelsea High, Mr. Butt distinguished himself as an outstanding athlete. He graduated with the Class of 1940 and served as captain of the CHS basketball team.
His service extended beyond Chelsea when he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II. He earned an honorable discharge in 1946, having achieved the rank of staff sergeant.
The Chelsea Fire Department knew Mr. Butt well through his 32 years of dedicated service. Younger firefighters held him in high regard for the fatherly guidance and professionalism he consistently demonstrated as one of the department’s most senior members.
Perhaps most importantly, Mr. Butt exemplified what it meant to be a devoted family man. A loving husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, brother and uncle, he treasured time with his loved ones and delighted in sharing memories of Chelsea’s past.
His children and grandchildren inherited the personable, respectful, thoughtful and giving qualities that Mr. Butt and his wife of 66 years, Vera Butt, instilled in them. This close-knit family reflects the character of both parents in their interactions with others.
One particularly meaningful aspect of Mr. Butt’s life was his unwavering support of his son Roy’s athletic pursuits. He attended his son’s Chelsea Little League, Chelsea Youth Baseball League, Chelsea High School, and Chelsea Babe Ruth games with genuine enthusiasm. A standout moment came in Revere when Roy hit four doubles in a single Chelsea High game—a record that may stand forever.
Yet Mr. Butt never sought recognition for his son’s achievements. Instead, he would sit modestly with friends at Voke Park during Pony League games, cheering encouragement for all the young players and modeling the behavior he believed all parents should follow.
Mr. Butt was a true Chelsea native who cherished his city and made it his lifelong home. He lived a full and meaningful life, and those who knew him consider themselves fortunate for having been in his presence.