Thomas Butcher, one of Butcher Distributors’ founding members, passed away on May 25, 2020, at the age of 93.

Tom was a wonderful husband and father, astute businessman, and friend to many. His wonderful sense of humor and love of Lafayette history provided for many laughs and entertaining stories. Tom served in the Merchant Marines and later received degrees from SLI (UL Lafayette) and LSU in Baton Rouge.

In 1949, he and his wife taught school in Cut Off before moving back to Lafayette, where he joined his brothers Warren and Matt in forming Butcher Air Conditioning, a firm now in operation for more than 70 years.

Tom was a passionate supporter of the Catholic Church and Catholic education. He served in numerous positions with Our Lady of Fatima School, including presidents of the school board, Fatima Foundation, Parents Club, and Boosters Club. He was vice-president of the founding board of St. Thomas More Catholic High School and served as chairman of the personnel committee. He served as president of the Carmelite Guild as well as a cantor at the monastery. Tom received numerous awards for his service to the Catholic community, including the Roy Billeaud Service Award from Fatima School, the Monsignor Alexander Sigur Award, and the Bishop’s Medal.

Being a musician most of his life, Tom was in several bands, including the “Skyliners” and his own band “Tommy Butcher and his Jive Five.” He also participated in several religious instrumental and vocal groups in Lafayette. For more than 25 years, he was a member of the Fatima Men’s Choir and the choir at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist for another 20 years.

Tom will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure to know him.