Clyde Edward Butler Jr.

In Loving Memory of Clyde E. Butler Jr. Architect, Veteran, and Beloved Family Man Clyde E. Butler Jr., a visionary architect who helped shape the skyline and soul of New Orleans, LA passed away on August 21, 2025, at the age of 77. Born in Tylertown, Mississippi in 1948 to Clyde E. Butler Sr. and Idena Davis-Butler, he carried the values of love, resilience, and service throughout his life. Clyde graduated from Booker T. Washington High School and honorably served in the U.S. Army. As a member of the 1st Cavalry Division during the Vietnam War, he faced the hardships of combat with courage and resilience, ultimately returning home safely to New Orleans, Louisiana. Following his military service, Clyde pursued his passion for design and earned his degree in architecture from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. His early career was marked by contributions to some of New Orleans’ most iconic structures, including Le Méridien Hotel, Hilton Riverside, Westin Hotel, and the VA Hospital to name a few. Clyde’s legacy deepened during his tenure as Senior Vice President of Construction at the Audubon Nature Institute. His leadership brought to life transformative projects such as the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, the IMAX Theater expansion, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, Audubon Golf Course, and the Audubon Clubhouse and a host of construction projects under the Audubon umbrella—each a testament to his commitment to enriching the city’s cultural and natural landscape. He is survived by his devoted wife, Melissa Levy-Butler, who he loved dearly; his children Megan, Clyde III (Onyx), and Mallory, who he adored beyond measure; and his cherished grandchildren, Pharaoh and Messiah Butler, who he loved passionately. Clyde also leaves behind his loving siblings Joyce Cooper (Roland), Cassandra Butler, and Narekia Butler, a brother-in-law, Louis Tony Williams, three sisters-in-law, Adell Foxworth, Alberta and Marietta Levy, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. Clyde’s warmth extended to all creatures great and small. He adored his furry companions, treating them as treasured family members. He is lovingly remembered by his grandcat, Drogon Butler, and grandpups, Lola and Louie Butler. Those who knew Clyde will remember his love for cooking, gardening, tinkering, his joy in dancing, and above all, his deep devotion to family and friendship. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde Sr. and Idena; siblings Minnie Lou Williams, Jackal Butler, Dwight Butler, Clyde Ester Butler, Diane Nzinga, and Joan Butler; and his beloved grandpup, Symba Butler. Relatives and friends of the family, also pastors, officers and members of Franklin Avenue Baptist Church, Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church/First African Baptist Church, and Gretna United Methodist Church, as well as colleagues from Audubon Nature Institute, Martin Behrman Charter School, Young Audience Charter School, Progressive, City of Dallas, UL Research Institute are warmly invited to attend the Celebration of Life Services honoring Clyde’s life at Gretna United Methodist Church, 1309 Whitney Ave., Terrytown, LA 70056 on Saturday, August 30, 2025. Visitation begins at 10:00 AM, followed by the service at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery, 1225 Whitney Ave., Terrytown, LA 70056. Arrangements entrusted to D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave., New Orleans, LA 70125. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to sign the online guestbook, share memories and condolences with the family. Clyde E. Butler Jr. leaves behind a legacy of service, creativity, and love—a life well-lived and deeply felt.