Craig A. Butler

Craig Anthony Butler, born Monday July 3, 1961, in Chester, PA to Donald and Dorothy Butler, departed this life on Wednesday November 15, 2023. Craig attended Ridley High School, in Ridley, PA, after which he attended Cheyney University in Cheyney, PA. To enhance his knowledge of the word, Bishop attended Gary Whetsone’s School of Biblical Studies and later received his Bachelors of Christian Ministry from Chesapeake Bible College & Seminary in Ridgeway, MD. The early years of Bishop’s life were significantly impacted by his paternal grandparents, Deacon Robert Butler, and Mother Ethel Butler. He and his cousins spent many hours at their home and witnessed their love for God and family. This demonstration of love and dedication to Christ was reflected in every aspect of Bishop Butler’s life. Craig married the love of his life, Sheree Estelle Elam in 1986 and from this union the joy of his life was born, Brandi Christian Butler. Family meant the world to him. He could often be found in the company of his family, whether it was around the dinner table or on an infamous shopping trip. A new outlook on life was birthed in his life when his grandchildren Azziah and Paris were born. He referred to them as ‘his children’ and they affectionately called him ‘Dad.’ There is nothing he would rather do than spend time with his grands. As Brother Craig, he humbly served under the leadership of the Late Bishop Wallace Warren Smith, Pastor of the Community Bible Tabernacle Church in Philadelphia, PA; and later under Apostle Marian L. Rudd, Founder and Pastor of Bibleway Holy Church in Wilmington, DE, currently known as Redeeming Grace Worldwide Ministries. It was in November 1995, around the dining room table of his mother in love’s home, Mother Phyllis Farrare, along with 7 others, when Elder Craig Butler launched this work. Two months later on January 5, 1996, he officially opened Bread of Life Outreach Ministries, Chester, PA, as the founder and Senior Leader. Bread of Life was later renamed Life Dome Empowerment Worship Center. In March 1999, the Lord impressed upon Bishop Butler to seek spiritual covering from Bishop Ralph L. Dennis, Prelate of the Kingdom Fellowship Covenant Ministries Inc. In 2001, he was consecrated to the Office of Bishop; and in 2005 was given Apostolic Affirmation. Bishop Butler remained under the leadership of Archbishop Dennis and Kingdom Fellowship Covenant Ministries Inc. for 24 years. After the passing of Co-Pastor Sheree in 1999, Bishop appointed his friend and brother Elder Lawrence Dixon as Assistant Pastor. Pastor Dixon served in this role for 18 years; until his retirement in 2017. Elder Shirley Mitchell was then appointed assistant Pastor and served faithfully. Bishop loved his church family and had a very special love for the youth. He hosted Vacation Bible School, summer camps, community events and various youth gatherings throughout the years. He often invited great preachers and singers to edify the body of Christ. Through his ministry he discipled and fathered many spiritual sons and daughters. His deep dedication to intercessory prayer became his norm. He credited Apostle Marian Rudd, whom he affectionately called ‘Shepherd Mother’, for teaching him how to pray. In his later years, his faith was increased beyond measure thanks to his connection to the intercessors and his spiritual mother whom he adored, Apostle Jacqueline Simpson. In addition to pastoring, Bishop Butler loved singing; and his love for the Wilmington Chester Mass Choir was no secret. As one of its founding members, his affiliation with the choir spanned over 40 years. He served as a spiritual leader, chaplain, exhorter, and a lead tenor. He opened the doors of Life Dome to ensure the ministry he loved had a place to rehearse. Although physical limitations prohibited his full participation, he remained connected and faithful. Nicknamed “The Voice,” Bishop Butler was known for his radio station, leading services, emceeing, and exhortations. He was also known for his style. He was a professional shopper and prided himself in looking good. He loved jokes; and his facial expressions often spoke even if he did not open his mouth. He valued his ministry friends and was so delighted when he could travel, support, or spend time with them. Bishop Alan G Porter, Bishop Norman Brown, Bishop Wayne Rudd, Pastor Gregory Rhett and Pastors Joe and Ester Purnell are a few among the many. He is preceded in death by his wife Sheree Estelle Butler, his father Donald Butler, his brother Stanley Taylor, his daughter Kyshana Thomas, his grandparents, and a host of aunts and uncles. He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter Brandi Butler, his grandchildren Azziah and Paris; his former wife Evangelist Felicia Hill; children Kyjhana Thomas, Shemon Jones (Mike) and Armon Brown-Hill; his mother Dorothy Butler, his sister Angela Yarborough- Bowers (Kevin), his aunts Dorothy Neal, Pecolia Johnson, and Thelma Johnson; his mother in love Phyllis Farrare, his sister in love Shanon Andrews; his brother in love Shawn Elam (Pam), devoted nephew and niece Pastor Terrance and Meagan Farrare; other extended family Kenneth Andrews, Jr., Sandra Elam and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and god children.

Craig A. Butler

July 3, 1961 - November 15, 2023