Craig Delaney Butler

Craig Delaney Butler, 79, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away on January 1, 2026 at the University of Kansas Medical Center, after a brief illness.

Craig was born September 22, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Curtis and Hettie (Martin) Butler. Craig graduated from high school in Chicago, Illinois and then attended Bethel College – North Newton, Kansas and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history in 1972 and the University of Kansas with a master’s degree in education in 1990.

On July 23, 1971 Craig married Karen (Morris) Butler (died November 11, 2020). Survivors include his children, Julia Butler, Craig Butler II, Aaron (Kris) Butler, two grandchildren, Noah Butler, Caden Butler and many cousins and extended family in Chicago, Illinois and Magnolia, Mississippi.

Craig did not know a stranger. He had several people he was friends with for over sixty years who he considered brothers: Ronald (Janice) Stroud, Arthur Penny, Nate Penny and Irving Penny. Craig had many lifelong friends that he cherished and spoke with often.

Craig thoroughly enjoyed substitute teaching, coaching, and mentoring youth. Craig had a plethora of adopted individuals he considered his children. While we can’t name them all, he loved the connections he made and the guidance he offered to others in assisting them in making choices on making their lives and the lives of others better.

Craig loved deeply and he will be missed. There is no formal service schedule for Craig at this time. We plan on having a celebration of life for Craig in the coming months. One of the last things Craig asked for in the hospital was fried catfish, barbeque and a bud light. Please have a drink (and act responsibly) and some good food and remember his laugh.