David James Butler, Jr. was born on February 24,1988 to the late David Butler, Sr. and Sonia Barnes-Bocoum in Cheverly, Maryland. David transitioned to eternal life with his devoted mother by his side at the age of 34 in the comforts of his home in Tallahassee, Florida on December 9, 2022

David grew up in Prince George’s County Md. He graduated from Westlake High School in 2008. David was diagnosed with Huntington’s disease at the age of 17 and despite many challenges, David lived a fulfilled life. Soon after graduating from high school, David began volunteering at Ardmore Enterprises in their transportation department. At the age of 21, he chose and was accepted at New Horizons Supportive Services. New Horizons supported him with work skill training and professional development through their partnership with The Training Source, Inc. A short time later, David was hired by New Horizons as a teacher’s assistant with support from his staff. David loved and remained in this position until he was no longer able to work due to his illness.

As a young child David had a fascination with taking things apart and putting them back together again. He also loved to sing and dance, and would often dance for hours imitating Michael Jackson’s moves. These talents later transitioned to songwriting and rapping. David’s older cousin, also named David, introduced him to studio recording, where he enjoyed making his own music. Later his younger cousin Alex and close friend Danny would enjoy going to the studio with David. David also enjoyed attending church on Sundays at Zion and participating in the youth ministry called REMNANT, every Friday was a must, where lifelong friendships were developed including two friends he proudly referred to as his brothers, Quian and Danny. David’s faith and relationship with God allowed him to touch people’s lives in a special way. David was a diehard Redskins (Commanders) fan, win or lose. One of his favorite slogans after a winning game was “How about them Skins?” He also was a Lakers basketball fan and loved watching Kobe Bryant play.

David looked forward to holiday gatherings and opportunities to be around those he cherished. Especially those times with his Nephew Zimir’. Although David was always quiet in demeanor, birthdays, holidays, and cook outs were always events he did not want to miss – as well as many social functions with his friends. To have met David, you gained a friend. David never met anyone he did not like or get along with. David was friendly and protective of his loved ones and friends, especially his mother, grandmother, sisters, and brothers.

David is survived by his loving mother Sonia, Stepfather Hamidou, two younger brothers Dequan & Darren, two younger sisters Shamia & Antanae’, and one nephew Zimir’, as well as a host of other relatives, friends, and extended family members. David was loved by many and will be truly missed.

Acknowledgments

On behalf of David’s family we would like to thank everyone for the love, support, and acts of kindness during this time of bereavement. A special thanks to Rodney Jackson, Big Bend Hospice, Brian Pearis, and New Horizons Supportive Services for the support provided to David.

My Son
It broke my heart to lose you,
But you did not go alone
A part of me went with you
The day God called you home
A million times I’ve cried
If loving you could have saved you
You would have never left me
Forgive me Lord, I’ll always weep
For my son I love so much
But yet could not keep

Rest easy, my son – until I get there.
   – Mom