Jerry Butler, the legendary soul music artist and politician, has passed away at the age of 85. Born in Sunflower, Mississippi, Butler rose to fame with The Impressions in 1958 with their hit ballad “For Your Precious Love”. He was later inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991.
Butler’s second act saw him serving as a Cook County commissioner for over three decades. His work earned him recognition, including an award in 2019. Butler won public office as a commissioner in 1985, serving eight terms until his retirement in 2018.
The Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle paid tribute to Butler’s contributions to music and public service. “Jerry Butler was more than a musical icon – he was a dedicated public servant who gave over three decades of his life to the residents of Cook County.”
Butler’s legacy continues to inspire, with singer Terisa Griffin crediting him as a mentor in both music and show business. His family is still finalizing funeral arrangements, but plans are underway for part of the services to be open to the public.
Butler was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Annette Butler, and is survived by their twin sons. The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.
Source: https://abc7chicago.com/post/jerry-butler-death-rock-roll-hall-fame-member-former-cook-county-commissioner-dead-85/15942036