Boone NC Coach, Richard Butler Is Survived By His Wife Kathy Greene And Their Two Daugters
Daniel Lopez
Published May 15, 2026
Boone NC Coach, Richard Butler Is Survived By His Wife Kathy Greene And Their Two Daugters
Fly High Flip
June 6, 2026
This article was last updated by Manoj Gadtaula on June 6, 2026
The Boone, North Carolina, community is mourning the loss of Richard Marion Butler, a beloved husband, father, coach, and friend, who passed away peacefully at his home on Burkett Road on Tuesday, June 3, 2026.
At 67 years old, Richard, known as “Flip,” left behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and a constant dedication to his family and community.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Kathy Greene Butler, and their two daughters, Chelsey Rapp and Chandler Hofe, who were the heart of his world.
Richard and his wife, Kathy Greene Butler. (Source: ) Richard Butler’s Married to Kathy Greene Butler, a talented music teacher and former Praise and Worship Leader at Boone United Methodist Church, Richard found his lifelong partner in a woman whose warmth and passion for music matched his own zest for life.
Kathy, a graduate of Watauga High School and Appalachian State University with a degree in music, shared Richard’s deep-rooted connection to Boone.
Together, they raised two daughters, Chelsey and Chandler, who brought light and laughter to their lives.
Chelsey shared the heartbreaking news of her father’s passing in a heartfelt Facebook post, writing,
She asked for privacy as the family processes their loss, noting that a Celebration of Life would be held on Saturday, June 7, 2026, at Boone United Methodist Church.
Richard Was Born On November 17, 1957, In Forsyth County
Richard grew up alongside his sisters, Bobbi, Gay Murphy, and Jo Balcome, in Forsyth County
Though preceded in death by his sister Bobbi and his parents, Richard’s surviving sisters, Gay and Jo, continue to honor his memory, alongside Kathy and their daughters.
Richard Butler (Source: )To those who knew him, Richard was more than just a name; he was “Flip,” a nickname that captured his playful and approachable spirit.
Whether he was coaching softball, playing pickleball, or mowing his beloved lawn, Flip brought energy and enthusiasm to everything he did.
At Boone United Methodist Church, Flip was a dedicated member who poured his energy into the Firewood Ministry, ensuring that those in need stayed warm during Boone’s chilly winters.
His dedication to helping others expanded beyond the church, particularly to the homeless community.
Flip had a special place in his heart for those struggling, often acting as a quiet intermediary to connect people with the resources they needed.
Ken and Pam Schram, friends from the pickleball community, recalled how Flip would say,
“He frequently shared opportunities to help others, especially the homeless. He always knew how to get essential items to those in need. If you had something to contribute, he would say, “Just put it in the back of my truck,” and we knew he would ensure it reached those who needed it most. He also informed us about opportunities to assist those trying to get back on their feet.He was always the first to offer prayers to anyone in need. The stories of his generosity are too numerous to list, but his heart and hard work were always evident. He constantly made us laugh both on and off the court. He will be deeply missed by so many. “
Via Austin and Barnes Funeral HomeAs a Softball Coach And Mentor, Flip Inspired Many Youth
As a mentor to countless young athletes, he was known for his ability to build confidence and bring joy to the game.
Aggie Lowe, a former player, remembered him fondly:
“I met Richard when I was quite young. He was my softball coach for many years. He grew my confidence in the sport more than anyone else did. He always gave the girls silly nicknames and was such a light to all of us. in more recent years, I was so happy every time I would run into him in public and get to say hi. He will be greatly missed. He was one of the kindest men I have ever met. I am so lucky to have known him. I am so sorry for your loss.”
Via Austin and Barnes Funeral HomeAggie’s words show the numerous lives Flip touched with his encouragement and humor.
At Fairgrounds Raceway, where Flip was a cherished staff member, his passing left a void that will not soon be filled.
The Raceway shared a moving tribute, stating, “Richard ‘Flip’ Butler was not just our staff member, he was the guy that always encouraged us and made us laugh.”
In his honor, Saturday’s race will include a special moment of remembrance, with drivers handing out candy in the stands—a tradition Flip loved.
The Raceway encouraged attendees to wear cut-offs, Hawaiian shirts, and backward hats, a nod to Flip’s fun-loving style.
Beyond his community involvement, Flip found happiness in the simple things.
A retired Lineman for Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corp., he embraced retirement with a passion for pickleball, a game he helped popularize in Boone.
Flip also loved tending to his “water zucchini” and took great pride in mowing his yard—a task he approached with the same dedication he brought to everything else.
His playful spirit and generous heart made him a friend to all, whether he was sharing a laugh, offering a prayer, or quietly ensuring someone’s needs were met.
Richard Butler’s passing impacted Boone, but his legacy lives on through his loved ones.
at 2:00 p.m. at Boone United Methodist Church, will be a fitting tribute to a man who lived with purpose and joy.
The service will be followed by a reception at the church, with a private graveside ceremony at Mount Lawn Memorial Park & Gardens.
In lieu of food, the family requests that memorials be made to the Hospitality House or the Firewood Ministry at Boone United Methodist Church, causes close to Flip’s heart.
As the Boone community gathers to celebrate Flip’s life, they will remember a man who loved deeply, gave generously, and lived fully.
His wife, Kathy Greene Butler, and daughters, Chelsey and Chandler, will carry forward his legacy of love, supported by a community forever changed by his presence.
Flip may be gone, but as Fairgrounds Raceway so eloquently put it, “You will never be forgotten.”
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